Cities of Tamilnadu - Kanyakumari
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
» Location : IIn Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu
» Also Known As : Kuttalur
» Hosts : An Ancient Seaport
» Main Attractions : Cuddalore Port, Kattu Mannargudi, Tiruppapuliyur
Cities of Tamilnadu
» Chennai
» Coimbatore
» Kanyakumari
» Kodaikanal
» Madurai
» Mahabalipuram
» Rameshwaram
» Trichy ( Tiruchirappalli )
» Thanjavur
» Ooty ( Udhagamandalam )
more Cities of South India
Kanyakumari - The Southern most Land tip of India
Kanyakumari (also spelt as Kanniyakumari) district is bounded by Tirunelveli district in the north and northeast, by Kerala state in the northwest and confluence of Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean in the west and south. The coastline is almost regular except for some points of land projecting into the sea at Cape Comorin. Kanyakumari is the district headquarters of the district of the same name.
It's Name
Kannyakumari has been named after the Goddess Kannyakumari Amman who is the popular deity of the area. Legend has it that the Goddess Parvati in one of her incarnations as Devi Kanniya did penance on one of the rocks of this land's end to obtain the hand of Lord Shiva.
The City Of Kanyakumari
At the southern most land tip of India, where the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal meet, lies Kannyakumari, an important pilgrim centre. Kannyakumari is famous for its beach and the spectacular sunrises and sunsets, especially on full moon days. Kanyakumari is also famous for its vast green stretches of paddy fields, rich forests, coconut groves and mineral sands.
Kanyakumari Beach
The Kanyakumari beach is a beautiful sight with multi-coloured sand. The beach here does not really offer one the opportunity to sunbathe on soft golden sands, or to frolic in the waves either. The seashore is rocky and dangerous, and there is a manmade wall running along it. People are warned to stay off the rocks, and when if someone ventures out of bounds, he or she is quickly and severely reprimanded by a watchful policeman. There is a lighthouse from where one can get a panoramic view.
The sea is fairly rough, so it is entertaining to watch it beat itself against the rocks and then subside, before it gathers itself up for another attack. With long stretches of sands of many hues, the beach offers a welcome change. A variety of shells are on sale on the Kanyakumari beach.
The History Of Kanyakumari
Kanniyakumari district, once known as "The Granary of Travancore" lies at the southwestern part of Indian peninsula. It was in Travancore for a long time and then merged with Tamil Nadu in 1956 under the State Linguistic Reorganisation Act.
Pilgrim Rites Performed
Pilgrimage rites include bathing at Pitru and Matru Tirtha, two rocks over which a monument honouring Swami Vivekananda, a Hindu religious leader, was built in 1970.
Prime Attractions of Kanyakumari
§ Temple Of Goddess Bhagavathi : Few temples in India are more picturesquely located than that of Goddess Bhagavathi in Kannyakumari. It stands near where three oceans meet: the Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea.
In its early form the temple seems to have been built by the first Pandyas. The Nayaks expanded it later. There are three Prakaras. The image of the Goddess in the sanctum is marvellous in its serenity and beneficence. She carries a necklace in Her right hand. The eastern gate, facing the Bay of Bengal is opened only five times a year.
§ Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial : On the evening of December 25, 1892, Swami Vivekananda who had come to Kannyakumari on pilgrimage swam to the rock and spent the whole night there in deep meditation. He then resolved to decide himself to the service of the Motherland and to spread the message of Vedanta. Next year he attended the Parliament of Religions in Chicago, an event of seminal importance in the modern history of Hinduism. To commemorate his visit to the rock a superb memorial has been erected. It attracts thousands of visitors.
§ Kumari Amman Temple : Kumari Amman Temple is dedicated to Parvati as Devi Kanya, the Virgin Goddess who did penance to obtain the hand of Lord Shiva.
§ The Temple At Suchindram : Tradition connects the Kannyakumari temple with that in Suchindram (13-km from Kanyakumari). This is a fine, large fane, with a beautiful tank. It is one of the few temples in the country where the Trinity, Brahma, Vishnu and Isvara, are worshipped. The Linga, named "Sthanumalaya", is in three parts; the top represents Lord Shiva, the middle Lord Vishnu, and the base Lord Brahma. "Sthanu" is a name of Shiva, "Mal" of Vishnu, and "Ayan" of Brahma.
§ Gandhi Mandapam : Not far from the Kumari Amman Temple is the Gandhi Mandapam, constructed at the spot where the urn containing the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi was kept for public view before a portion of its contents was immersed in the three seas. It resembles an Oriyan temple and was designed so that on Gandhiji's birthday (2nd October), the sun's rays fall on the place where his ashes were kept.
Other Attractions of Kanyakumari
§ Thengapattinam Beach : Thengapattinam, situated on the west coast, is a place of historical importance. It is 35-km from Nagercoil and 54-km from Kannyakumari. As coconut trees are abundant in this place, the place might have derived this name.
This village had, in ancient times, trade relations with foreign countries like Arabia. There was direct Cargo boat service between Thengapattinam and other foreign maritime towns.
The mosque at Thengapattinam is about 1,200 years old. This place is well connected with Nagercoil and Thiruvananthapuram by regular bus service. Thengapattinam Beach is an excellent picnic spot with backwater facilities.
§ Pechipparai Dam : Like all other dam sites Pechipparai Dam too is a popular picnic spot where facilities for boating have also been provided. It is 56-km from Kanyakumari.
§ Chidaral : 55-km from Kanyakumari is Chidaral. The Jain sculptures here are worth a visit.
§ Vattakottai : About 6-km from Kannyakumari is Vattakottai with an 18th century fort overlooking the sea. The sea here is calm and suitable for bathing.
§ Muttam : About 32-km from Kannyakumari is Muttam with a fine beach and a lighthouse.
§ Padamanabhapuram : The capital of Travancore until 1333, Padmanabhapuram is known for its fort which encloses, among other buildings, a palace and a temple. The palace has some important art relics while the Ramaswami temple has exquisitely carved panels depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Padmanabhapuram is 45km from Kanyakumari.
§ Thiruvattar : Thiruvattar is located at a distance of 70-km from Kanyakumari. The temple here is one of the finest specimens of temple art and architecture. The paintings on the walls of the temple are worth seeing.
§ Thirparappu Water Falls : About 60km from Kanyakumari are Thirparappu Waterfalls, a picturesque spot with an ancient Mahadevar Temple.
§ Mathoor Thottippalam : It is one of the largest and the highest bridge located near Thiruvattar about 70-km from Kanyakumari. The bridge and the lush green surroundings are noted for scenic beauty.
§ Olakkay Aruvi Water falls : Olakkay Aruvi waterfalls in the Western Ghats are 14-km from Nagercoil and 33-km from Kanyakumari. The beautiful waterfalls and the natural scenery all around the place attract many holiday seekers and this place has become an important picnic centre.
§ Kalakkadu and Mundanthurai : Kalakadu wildlife sanctuary is situated in an area of 223-sq-km in the Tirunelveli district, including the foothills of the Western Ghats and the adjoining area. 47km from Tirunelveli, the Kalakadu wildlife sanctuary is very popular with botanists and ornithologists as it has a great variety of fauna and bird life.
Situated 42-km from Tirunelveli, the Mundanthurai wildlife sanctuary boasts of dry deciduous to tropical wet evergreen forest patches of pure reeds. The sanctuary covers an area of 567-sq-kms. There is nothing to differentiate this sanctuary from that of Kalakadu, except the absence of Elephant and the Gaur.
Excursions of Kanyakumari
§ Tirunelveli : The temple of Swami Nelliappar and Sri Kanthimathi Ambal in Tirunelveli (83-km from Kanyakumari) dates back at least to the seventh century. Sambandar has sung it, and Ninrasir Neumaran, the Pandya, is said to have commissioned the making of musical pillars in a Mandapa in this temple. Originally, there were two temples side by side, dedicated to Lord Nelliappar and Goddess Kanthimathi. They were linked by a Mandapa, the "chain" Mandapa, built in 1647. The oldest inscription belongs to the middle of the tenth century.
§ Sankaranainarkoil : Sankaranainarkoil has three shrines dedicated to Lord Sankaralinga, to Goddess Gomathi Amman and, between these two, to Lord Sankaranarayana, a combination of Shiva and Vishnu. The temple was built in the eleventh century and was expanded later. The Gopura is of nine storeys and is 38m high. The temple is famous for the miracles the Goddess performs in curing illness.
§ Nagaraja Temple at Nagercoil : 19-km from Kannyakumari is Nagercoil, which contains the celebrated Nagaraja temple. The sanctum is a simple thatched shed, with mud walls. It enshrines the King of Serpents. Tradition states that a King of Kalakkad was cured of leprosy when he performed penance in the temple. He then rebuilt it in the Kerala style. He might have been Bhuthalavira Sri Vira Udaya Marthandavarma, who ruled Venad, with Kalakkad as his capital, from 1516 to 1535. It is believed that snakebite is not fatal within a kilometre of the temple. The fane has some Jain sculptures.
§ Alvar Tirunagari : One of the celebrated Vaishnavaite temples in the district of Kannyakumari is in Alvar Tirunagari, one of the nine sung of by Namalvar. The saint attained enlightenment under a tree, which still stands in the temple. The Lord is Adinatha. The temple has a Nadaswaram musical instrument made of stone. It is played during the temple festival.
§ Kumarakovil : Kumarakovil is at the foot of the Velimalai hills in Kalkulam Taluk (also spelt as Taluka), about 34-km from Kannyakumari. The Lord Muruga Temple is built on the hillock about 200 feet height in a lush green field of Paddy, Plantain and Coconut trees. The temple is noted for architectural beauty. Goddess Valli, the spouse of Lord Subramanya is also enshrined in the temple by the side of the Lord. In the right side of the temple there is one big lake, suitable for boating.
§ Subramanya Temple in Tiruchendur : The temple of Lord Subramanya in Tiruchendur, also in the same district, is one of the "Arupadai Veedus", or specially sanctified residences, of the Lord. It is situated by the sea. Traditionally, it commemorates the Lord's victory over Surapadma, a demon. The Gopura, of nine storeys, is 42m high and was constructed in the 17th century. It was renovated in 1983.
Fairs and Festivals of Kanyakumari
§ Cape Festival : Kanyakumari, also known as Cape Comorin is located at the southern most tip of India, where the Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea meet. A dip in the ocean here is considered holy, but the sea is rough here and not fit for bathing. This is the only place in India, where the sunset and moonrise can be viewed simultaneously on a full moon day.
The Vivekananda memorial set amidst the sea is a place known to give mental emancipation. The Cape festival is celebrated on a large scale for three days at Kanyakumari. The festival is marked by a series of cultural programs.
Places to stay in Kanyakumari
Varied accommodation options varying from luxurious to economic hotels, lodges, Devasthanam cottages are available for tourists in Kanyakumari.
Shopping in Kanyakumari
Souvenirs and handicraft articles made from seashells and palm leaf articles are the main items to buy at Kannyakumari. Trinkets and packets of coloured sea sand for children can also be bought here. There are several shops selling these articles.
How to Get There
Air : The nearest airport is at Thiruvananthapuram (80-km), which is well connected with national and International flights. From Thiruvananthapuram one can take a taxi or bus to Kanyakumari.
Rail : Kanyakumari is well connected by train services with all the places in India. Superfast trains connect the southern most railhead of India with northern cities like Jammu and Delhi. Intercity trains are running from almost all the southern cities.
Road : Kanyakumari is connected by regular bus services with Chennai, Pondicherry, Bangalore, Trichy, Madurai, Mandapam (Rameshwaram), Nagercoil, Tuticorin, Tiruchendur, Tiruvelveli, Trivandrum, etc. Town bus service, tourist taxis and auto rickshaws are available.
Tourist Information Centre about Kanyakumari
» Government of Tamil Nadu Tourist Office, Beach Road, Kanyakumari.
» Information Centre, Vivekanand Rock Memorial, Beach Road, Kanyakumari.
Nearby Cities of Kanyakumari
» Tenkasi - 138 km
» Thiruvananthpuram - 87 km
» Tiruchendur - 95 km
» Triuneveli - 83 km
General Information about Kanyakumari
» Area: 25.89-sq-km
» Population: 18,900 (1991 Census)
» Latitude: N 8o 3' to 8o 35'
» Longitude: E 77o 05' to 77o 36'
» Clothing: Light Cottons
» Languages Spoken: Tamil, Malayalam, English
» STD Code: 04652
» Climate - Tropical
» Temperature Range (deg C):
- Summer- Max 34.8ºC, Min 22.4ºC
- Winter- Max 33.8ºC, Min 21.6ºC
» Rainfall: (Average) 102 cms
Sunday, May 17, 2009
South India - Pilgrimage of Kerala - Sabarimala
South India - Pilgrimage of Kerala - Sabarimala
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
» Location : Western Ghats, Kerala
» Dedicated To : Lord Ayyappa
» Altitude : 914 m Above Sea Level
» Main Festival : Sabarimala Temple Festival
Temples in Kerala
» Guruvayoor Temple
» Kalpathy Temple
» Sabarimala Temple
» Thriprayar Temple
more Temples in South India
Sabarimala is a renowned pilgrim centre atop the rugged hills of the Western Ghats. This holy shrine is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The sanctum sanctoram nestles 914 m above sea level, amidst the virgin forest wilderness of the Western Ghats.
The Village of Sabarimala is named after Shabari who did severe penance in order to meet Rama who granted her wish for her devotion and faith during her penance.
The main pilgrimage is undertaken between November and January. Regardless of caste, creed, colour, they wear black dhotis and carry on their heads, bundles containing traditional offerings like coconut filled with ghee, camphor and rice.
The Main Festival
Sabarimala is one of the most important Hindu temples of Kerala. The Sabarimala Temple festival is celebrated in honour of Lord Ayyapan who is revered by all in India.
There are two main pujas called the Mandal Puja and the Makara Sankranti Puja, which are celebrated from November to Middle of January in Kerala, during which time the devotees perform austerities and penance.
The Penance
Devotees undergo rigorous penance and austere living before starting on the pilgrimage. Devotees wear black 'dhotis' and are bare-chested as they prepare for the pilgrimage to Sabarimala.
The temple is at the top of the Neeli hills and the devotees have to climb the treacherous route carrying their meagre provision in a bundle called "Iru Mudi" meaning in "two folds".
The distance from the base of the hill to the top takes about three days to cover and the most important part of the pilgrimage are the final 18 steps, which lead to the temple. The temple dome is covered with gold and the devotees break the coconuts before climbing the steps.
An Unmatched Instance of Religious Tolerance
Opposite the main temple complex, there is a smaller temple for the Muslim god called Wavar, who is an ally of Lord Ayyapa.
Signifying religious tolerance and harmony of the olden days, the devotees pay obeisance to Lord Wavar, on their way to the main temple. After the devotees complete their pujas and offerings, they return to the base of the hill and return to their homes.
The people making the pilgrimage for the first time are known as "Kanni Swamys" and the person leading the group is known as 'Guru Swamy' or the lead person of a team who is incharge of all the rituals.
Devotees take a ritual bath, while climbing up the hill in the holy river Pamba, which is believed to absolve one's sins.
Restricted Entry At The Festival Time
Only young girls who have not attained womanhood and old women who have reached menopause are allowed to worship at this time.
The men must vow to walk bare foot, not cut their nails and hair, sleep on the floor and practise absolute abstinence during the period of their penance.
How to Get There
Transportation is available upto Pamba, from where one has to travel a distance of 5 kms on foot. Devotees undertake rigorous penance, ritualistic vows and fasts before they visit the temple.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
» Location : Western Ghats, Kerala
» Dedicated To : Lord Ayyappa
» Altitude : 914 m Above Sea Level
» Main Festival : Sabarimala Temple Festival
Temples in Kerala
» Guruvayoor Temple
» Kalpathy Temple
» Sabarimala Temple
» Thriprayar Temple
more Temples in South India
Sabarimala is a renowned pilgrim centre atop the rugged hills of the Western Ghats. This holy shrine is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The sanctum sanctoram nestles 914 m above sea level, amidst the virgin forest wilderness of the Western Ghats.
The Village of Sabarimala is named after Shabari who did severe penance in order to meet Rama who granted her wish for her devotion and faith during her penance.
The main pilgrimage is undertaken between November and January. Regardless of caste, creed, colour, they wear black dhotis and carry on their heads, bundles containing traditional offerings like coconut filled with ghee, camphor and rice.
The Main Festival
Sabarimala is one of the most important Hindu temples of Kerala. The Sabarimala Temple festival is celebrated in honour of Lord Ayyapan who is revered by all in India.
There are two main pujas called the Mandal Puja and the Makara Sankranti Puja, which are celebrated from November to Middle of January in Kerala, during which time the devotees perform austerities and penance.
The Penance
Devotees undergo rigorous penance and austere living before starting on the pilgrimage. Devotees wear black 'dhotis' and are bare-chested as they prepare for the pilgrimage to Sabarimala.
The temple is at the top of the Neeli hills and the devotees have to climb the treacherous route carrying their meagre provision in a bundle called "Iru Mudi" meaning in "two folds".
The distance from the base of the hill to the top takes about three days to cover and the most important part of the pilgrimage are the final 18 steps, which lead to the temple. The temple dome is covered with gold and the devotees break the coconuts before climbing the steps.
An Unmatched Instance of Religious Tolerance
Opposite the main temple complex, there is a smaller temple for the Muslim god called Wavar, who is an ally of Lord Ayyapa.
Signifying religious tolerance and harmony of the olden days, the devotees pay obeisance to Lord Wavar, on their way to the main temple. After the devotees complete their pujas and offerings, they return to the base of the hill and return to their homes.
The people making the pilgrimage for the first time are known as "Kanni Swamys" and the person leading the group is known as 'Guru Swamy' or the lead person of a team who is incharge of all the rituals.
Devotees take a ritual bath, while climbing up the hill in the holy river Pamba, which is believed to absolve one's sins.
Restricted Entry At The Festival Time
Only young girls who have not attained womanhood and old women who have reached menopause are allowed to worship at this time.
The men must vow to walk bare foot, not cut their nails and hair, sleep on the floor and practise absolute abstinence during the period of their penance.
How to Get There
Transportation is available upto Pamba, from where one has to travel a distance of 5 kms on foot. Devotees undertake rigorous penance, ritualistic vows and fasts before they visit the temple.
South India - Kerala Backwater Destinations - Trivandrum
South India - Kerala Backwater Destinations - Trivandrum
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
» Location : Sourthern Coast Of India, Kerala
» Significance : Capital Of Kerala
» Other Activities : Canoe Rides, Backwater Cruising
» Nearby Attraction : Kovalam, Thiruvallam
Kerala Backwater Destinations
» Trivandrum
» Kollam
» Alappuzha ( Alleppey )
» Kottayam
» Ernakulam
» Kasargod
The lagoons, lakes, canals and rivers are lined up with dense tropical vegetation on either side. It is a breathtaking bout to experience a solitary and calm glide through this network of waterways. The backwaters form a specially attractive and economically valuable feature of Kerala. They include lakes and ocean inlets which stretch irregularly along the coast. The biggest backwater is the Vembabad lake, some 200 sq kilometers in area, which opens out into the Arabian Sea at Cochin port. The Periyar, Pamba, Manimala, Achenkovil, Meenachil and Moovattupuzha rivers drain into this lake. Veli, Kadhinamkulam, Anjengo (Anju Thengu), Edava, Nadayara, Paravoor, Ashtamudi (in Kollam Dist.) Kayamkulam, Kodungallur (in Trissur Dist) and Chetuva are some of the other places where you may go for backwater cruising. The backwaters of Kerala stretch over 1900 Kilometers, providing drinking water and irrigation facilities.
Trivandrum District
§ Thiruvallam : (6 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram) This serene backwater stretch, enroute to Kovalam, is famous for its canoe rides. It is the meeting point of two rivers-Killi and Karamana. A temple dedicated to Parashurama, the legendary founder of Kerala, is located in Thiruvallam.
§ Veli Tourist Village : (8 kilometers from Thriruvananthapuram) The Veli Tourist Village is bordered by the Veli lagoon and the Arabian sea. The lagoon here is separated from the sea by a narrow sand bar. Facilities at the village include water sports in the lagoon and an 18-acre waterfront park with a floating bridge that connects the village to the beach.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
» Location : Sourthern Coast Of India, Kerala
» Significance : Capital Of Kerala
» Other Activities : Canoe Rides, Backwater Cruising
» Nearby Attraction : Kovalam, Thiruvallam
Kerala Backwater Destinations
» Trivandrum
» Kollam
» Alappuzha ( Alleppey )
» Kottayam
» Ernakulam
» Kasargod
The lagoons, lakes, canals and rivers are lined up with dense tropical vegetation on either side. It is a breathtaking bout to experience a solitary and calm glide through this network of waterways. The backwaters form a specially attractive and economically valuable feature of Kerala. They include lakes and ocean inlets which stretch irregularly along the coast. The biggest backwater is the Vembabad lake, some 200 sq kilometers in area, which opens out into the Arabian Sea at Cochin port. The Periyar, Pamba, Manimala, Achenkovil, Meenachil and Moovattupuzha rivers drain into this lake. Veli, Kadhinamkulam, Anjengo (Anju Thengu), Edava, Nadayara, Paravoor, Ashtamudi (in Kollam Dist.) Kayamkulam, Kodungallur (in Trissur Dist) and Chetuva are some of the other places where you may go for backwater cruising. The backwaters of Kerala stretch over 1900 Kilometers, providing drinking water and irrigation facilities.
Trivandrum District
§ Thiruvallam : (6 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram) This serene backwater stretch, enroute to Kovalam, is famous for its canoe rides. It is the meeting point of two rivers-Killi and Karamana. A temple dedicated to Parashurama, the legendary founder of Kerala, is located in Thiruvallam.
§ Veli Tourist Village : (8 kilometers from Thriruvananthapuram) The Veli Tourist Village is bordered by the Veli lagoon and the Arabian sea. The lagoon here is separated from the sea by a narrow sand bar. Facilities at the village include water sports in the lagoon and an 18-acre waterfront park with a floating bridge that connects the village to the beach.
South India - Kerala House Boat - Kettuvallam House Boats
South India - Kerala House Boat - Kettuvallam House Boats
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
» Location : Kerala Backwaters
» Significance : Traditional Houseboats
» Other Activities : Backwater Cruises, Angling
» Also Known As : Kettuvallams
House Boat of Kerala
» The Glory of House Boats
» Features of Houseboats
» Kettuvallam Houseboats
more Kerala House Boat
Kettuvallams, the stitched boats provide the best way to experience the colourful backwaters of Kerala. The Kettuvalloms of Kerala are giant country crafts, measuring up to 80 feet in length.
The traditional house boat, the indispensable part of the picturesque backwaters of Kerala, was mainly used in Travancore and Kochi and in the Minicoy Islands in olden times.
The wood commonly used to make Kettuvalloms is 'Anhili', which is found in abundance in central Travancore area. Large planks are tied together using hand made coir ropes and beaten coconut fibres.
This gives the Kettuvallams enough strength to withstand heavy waves in the sea. These long cargo boats are a familiar sight on the backwaters. These traditional house boats undoubtedly form one of the most abiding images of the backwaters in Kerala.
Today, these goods carriers have been adapted to make the most exciting tourism product in India, the luxuriously furnished house boat. Kettuvallams or the 'house-boats of Kerala' dot the serene palm-fringed backwaters of Kerala.
Witness The Making Of the Traditional Kettuvallams
At a quiet spot just outside the small town of Karunagapally, 23 kms north of Quilon, it's possible to watch the construction of traditional Kettuvallams. Kettuvallams are built entirely without the use of nails.
It requires great skill and adroitness to construct these giant boats by tying huge planks of jack wood together. The boats are applied with fish oil and cashew nut oil and left to cure for days.
Oil is simultaneously applied atleast three times before the boat is set on water. Each jackwood plank is joined to the next with coir rope, and then the whole is coated with a caustic black resin made from boiled cashew kernels. With careful maintenance, they last for generations.
The Luxury In Water - Kerala House Boats
Kettuvallams, the large traditional house boats are converted into floating luxury dwelling units. These house boats are available in all sizes and shapes, the most popular accommodation type being a suite, having one or two bath attached bedrooms, one living room, kitchenette, an open lounge, deck and a crew comprising oarsmen, a cook and guide.
The house boats are generally powered by a small outboard engine, allowing one to cruise along the backwaters. A recent innovation is a small conference room in a house boat.
Enjoy The Backwaters of Kerala
A sojourn in Kettuvallams, the House boats of Kerala, offers a panoramic view of one of the most picturesque aspects of the God's Own Country. One can cruise in it through the palm-fringed backwaters, throughout a night in waxing moonlights.
The lullaby of the waves and the dazzling delights of the moonlit night can be experienced by spending a couple of nights aboard the Kettuvallam. The traditional house boat of Kerala is one of the most enduring images of the backwaters. These house boats are converted version of the "Kuttanadan Kettuvallams".
Price For Comfort
A 24-hour stay costs somewhere in the range of Rs. 6000. There are cheaper ones including dormitories and one bedroom. About 250 boats operate along the backwaters.
Cheaper boats are available for much less but it is a cheaper experience too. At the dockside, called Finishing Point at Alappuzha, the town of house boat operators and the starting point for backwater journeys, the boats are available for even Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 per day.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
» Location : Kerala Backwaters
» Significance : Traditional Houseboats
» Other Activities : Backwater Cruises, Angling
» Also Known As : Kettuvallams
House Boat of Kerala
» The Glory of House Boats
» Features of Houseboats
» Kettuvallam Houseboats
more Kerala House Boat
Kettuvallams, the stitched boats provide the best way to experience the colourful backwaters of Kerala. The Kettuvalloms of Kerala are giant country crafts, measuring up to 80 feet in length.
The traditional house boat, the indispensable part of the picturesque backwaters of Kerala, was mainly used in Travancore and Kochi and in the Minicoy Islands in olden times.
The wood commonly used to make Kettuvalloms is 'Anhili', which is found in abundance in central Travancore area. Large planks are tied together using hand made coir ropes and beaten coconut fibres.
This gives the Kettuvallams enough strength to withstand heavy waves in the sea. These long cargo boats are a familiar sight on the backwaters. These traditional house boats undoubtedly form one of the most abiding images of the backwaters in Kerala.
Today, these goods carriers have been adapted to make the most exciting tourism product in India, the luxuriously furnished house boat. Kettuvallams or the 'house-boats of Kerala' dot the serene palm-fringed backwaters of Kerala.
Witness The Making Of the Traditional Kettuvallams
At a quiet spot just outside the small town of Karunagapally, 23 kms north of Quilon, it's possible to watch the construction of traditional Kettuvallams. Kettuvallams are built entirely without the use of nails.
It requires great skill and adroitness to construct these giant boats by tying huge planks of jack wood together. The boats are applied with fish oil and cashew nut oil and left to cure for days.
Oil is simultaneously applied atleast three times before the boat is set on water. Each jackwood plank is joined to the next with coir rope, and then the whole is coated with a caustic black resin made from boiled cashew kernels. With careful maintenance, they last for generations.
The Luxury In Water - Kerala House Boats
Kettuvallams, the large traditional house boats are converted into floating luxury dwelling units. These house boats are available in all sizes and shapes, the most popular accommodation type being a suite, having one or two bath attached bedrooms, one living room, kitchenette, an open lounge, deck and a crew comprising oarsmen, a cook and guide.
The house boats are generally powered by a small outboard engine, allowing one to cruise along the backwaters. A recent innovation is a small conference room in a house boat.
Enjoy The Backwaters of Kerala
A sojourn in Kettuvallams, the House boats of Kerala, offers a panoramic view of one of the most picturesque aspects of the God's Own Country. One can cruise in it through the palm-fringed backwaters, throughout a night in waxing moonlights.
The lullaby of the waves and the dazzling delights of the moonlit night can be experienced by spending a couple of nights aboard the Kettuvallam. The traditional house boat of Kerala is one of the most enduring images of the backwaters. These house boats are converted version of the "Kuttanadan Kettuvallams".
Price For Comfort
A 24-hour stay costs somewhere in the range of Rs. 6000. There are cheaper ones including dormitories and one bedroom. About 250 boats operate along the backwaters.
Cheaper boats are available for much less but it is a cheaper experience too. At the dockside, called Finishing Point at Alappuzha, the town of house boat operators and the starting point for backwater journeys, the boats are available for even Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 per day.
South India - Hill Stations in Kerala - Mattupetti
South India - Hill Stations in Kerala - Mattupetti
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
» Location : 13 Kms From Munnar, Kerala
» Languages : Malayalam, Hindi, English
» Altitude : 1700 m Above Sea Level
» Famous For : Indo-Swiss Livestock Project
Hill Stations in Kerala
» Munnar
» Mattupetti
» Ponmudi
more Hill Stations in South India
Situated at a height of 1700 m, Mattupetty is famous for its highly specialised dairy farm, the Indo-Swiss live stock project. Over 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here.
Visitors are allowed into three of the eleven cattle sheds at the farm. The Mattupetty Lake and Dam, just a short distance from the farm, is a very beautiful picnic spot.
The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala Lake are other attractions in the vicinity. DTPC Idukki provides boating facilities on the Mattupetty Dam. Speed Launch and slow speed motor boats are available on hire.
Prime Attractions of Mattupetti
§ Indo-Swiss Livestock Project : (Mattuppetty is noted for its Indo-Swiss Livestock Project, where improved varieties of cattle are bred. The farm is open to visitors from morning till evening.
§ Mattupetty Lake And Dam : A nature lover's paradise, Mattuppetty Lake is nestled on the hills of Idukki, one of the most nature rich districts of Kerala.The calm, tranquil waters of the Mattuppetty Lake offer solace to the weary souls. A boat cruise on the lake is the best way to experience the idyllic destination.
The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) at Idukki is providing speed boats, motor boats, pedal boats and row boat facilities at the lake.
How to Get There
Air : Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 130 km.
Rail : Nearest railway station is at Kottayam about 142 km from Munnar.
Road : Mattuppetty is just a 13 km drive from Munnar, the most enchanting hill station of south India.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
» Location : 13 Kms From Munnar, Kerala
» Languages : Malayalam, Hindi, English
» Altitude : 1700 m Above Sea Level
» Famous For : Indo-Swiss Livestock Project
Hill Stations in Kerala
» Munnar
» Mattupetti
» Ponmudi
more Hill Stations in South India
Situated at a height of 1700 m, Mattupetty is famous for its highly specialised dairy farm, the Indo-Swiss live stock project. Over 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here.
Visitors are allowed into three of the eleven cattle sheds at the farm. The Mattupetty Lake and Dam, just a short distance from the farm, is a very beautiful picnic spot.
The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala Lake are other attractions in the vicinity. DTPC Idukki provides boating facilities on the Mattupetty Dam. Speed Launch and slow speed motor boats are available on hire.
Prime Attractions of Mattupetti
§ Indo-Swiss Livestock Project : (Mattuppetty is noted for its Indo-Swiss Livestock Project, where improved varieties of cattle are bred. The farm is open to visitors from morning till evening.
§ Mattupetty Lake And Dam : A nature lover's paradise, Mattuppetty Lake is nestled on the hills of Idukki, one of the most nature rich districts of Kerala.The calm, tranquil waters of the Mattuppetty Lake offer solace to the weary souls. A boat cruise on the lake is the best way to experience the idyllic destination.
The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) at Idukki is providing speed boats, motor boats, pedal boats and row boat facilities at the lake.
How to Get There
Air : Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 130 km.
Rail : Nearest railway station is at Kottayam about 142 km from Munnar.
Road : Mattuppetty is just a 13 km drive from Munnar, the most enchanting hill station of south India.
East India - Touristic Places in West Bengal - Howrah Bridge
East India - Touristic Places in West Bengal - Howrah Bridge
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
About The Howrah Bridge
The Howrah Bridge is the first cantilever suspension bridge of its type. Its a feat in modern engineering and technology. Constructed in 1874 over the river Hooghly, the bridge joins the twin cities of Howrah and Kolkata (Calcutta). In year 1871, the need for a bridge between Howrah and Calcutta was felt. After its completion in 1874, it became India's first floating structure. The bridge was partially built in India and partially in Britain. It is one of three bridges on the river Hooghly and is the most famous symbol of not only Calcutta but also West Bengal.
The Architecture
Calcutta-Howrah Bridge is a feat of nineteenth-century bridge engineering and technology. The 270 ft high and 1528 ft long bridge was completed in 1874, becoming the biggest floating structure of India. Famed British professional Engineer Sir Bradford Leslie was appointed the chief architect for the project. Due to some technical reasons, a portion of the bridge was made in England and shipped to Calcutta. The bridge got partially destroyed by the great cyclone of 20 March 1874. A steamer, collided with the bridge and damaged three pontoons, amounting to total destruction of 200 ft of the massive structure. The bridge eventually got completed and was opened for traffic on 17 October 1874. It was described as a structure of novelty and originality in its design. The bridge though has gone very old but is still holding good. A new bridge, alongside the old bridge, got constructed to reduce the traffic load on the older one.
Tourist Information
Visiting Hours: Is open throughout for the traffic.
Entry Fee: Nil.
When to visit: Best time to visit Kolkata is October to March.
Other Attractions near the Howrah Bridge
In Kolkata, the famous Victoria memorial (1921) and Indian Museum (1814) can be visited. These museums have some exclusive collections of ancient paintings, sculpture, stamps etc. India's oldest cricket ground, Eden Garden, is also in this city. Birla Planetarium, one of the largest
planetariums in the world is a good place to enjoy. The auditorium has a capacity of 500 and it conducts regular shows in Hindi, English and Bengali.
Getting There
Air: There is N.S.C. International airport at Dumdum in Kolkata. Regular flights to rest of India and world are available here.
Rail: Kolkata is very well connected to rest of India through two major railway station, Sealdah and Howrah.
Road: Kolkata is connected to the rest of India by excellent road network.
Accommodation
Kolkata has numerous options for stay. One can find luxurious star rated hotels, government owned hotels, guest houses, hostels, lodges and budget hotels to choose from.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
About The Howrah Bridge
The Howrah Bridge is the first cantilever suspension bridge of its type. Its a feat in modern engineering and technology. Constructed in 1874 over the river Hooghly, the bridge joins the twin cities of Howrah and Kolkata (Calcutta). In year 1871, the need for a bridge between Howrah and Calcutta was felt. After its completion in 1874, it became India's first floating structure. The bridge was partially built in India and partially in Britain. It is one of three bridges on the river Hooghly and is the most famous symbol of not only Calcutta but also West Bengal.
The Architecture
Calcutta-Howrah Bridge is a feat of nineteenth-century bridge engineering and technology. The 270 ft high and 1528 ft long bridge was completed in 1874, becoming the biggest floating structure of India. Famed British professional Engineer Sir Bradford Leslie was appointed the chief architect for the project. Due to some technical reasons, a portion of the bridge was made in England and shipped to Calcutta. The bridge got partially destroyed by the great cyclone of 20 March 1874. A steamer, collided with the bridge and damaged three pontoons, amounting to total destruction of 200 ft of the massive structure. The bridge eventually got completed and was opened for traffic on 17 October 1874. It was described as a structure of novelty and originality in its design. The bridge though has gone very old but is still holding good. A new bridge, alongside the old bridge, got constructed to reduce the traffic load on the older one.
Tourist Information
Visiting Hours: Is open throughout for the traffic.
Entry Fee: Nil.
When to visit: Best time to visit Kolkata is October to March.
Other Attractions near the Howrah Bridge
In Kolkata, the famous Victoria memorial (1921) and Indian Museum (1814) can be visited. These museums have some exclusive collections of ancient paintings, sculpture, stamps etc. India's oldest cricket ground, Eden Garden, is also in this city. Birla Planetarium, one of the largest
planetariums in the world is a good place to enjoy. The auditorium has a capacity of 500 and it conducts regular shows in Hindi, English and Bengali.
Getting There
Air: There is N.S.C. International airport at Dumdum in Kolkata. Regular flights to rest of India and world are available here.
Rail: Kolkata is very well connected to rest of India through two major railway station, Sealdah and Howrah.
Road: Kolkata is connected to the rest of India by excellent road network.
Accommodation
Kolkata has numerous options for stay. One can find luxurious star rated hotels, government owned hotels, guest houses, hostels, lodges and budget hotels to choose from.
East India - Touristic Places in West Bengal - Calcutta
East India - Touristic Places in West Bengal - Calcutta
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Location: The City of Joy is the capital of West Bengal, India.
Tourist Attractions: Victoria Memorial, Indian Museum, Fort William, Eden Garden, Birla Planetarium, Kali Mandir, Howrah Bridge, Belur Math, Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, Botanical Garden, Marble Palace, Tagore House, St. Paul's Cathedral.
Best Buys: Silk & Cotton sarees, Handicrafts, Carpets, Jewelry, Shantiniketan style bags, Bengali sweets.
Best Hangouts: Daimond Harbour, Parks & Gardens, Victoria Memorial, Nicco Park.
Should Not Miss : Relish on the cheese based sweets like Sandesh, Rosogolla and Chanar Payesh. Or have some Misti doi (sweetened curd) and Patali gur confectionery (date palm jaggery, only in winters). Also enjoy the spicy Jhalmudi, a speciality of this region.
Best Activities: Have a walk on the Park street or enjoy the chariot ride near Chowranghee.
Festivals: The world famous Durga Puja is observed in October. Saraswati Puja, a celebration for the goddess of learning in February. Other important festivals are Kali Puja and Diwali.
Nearest Tourist Destinations: Shanti Niketan, Bishnupur and Chandernagar.
When to Visit: October to March
About Kolkata
Kolkata, earlier called as Calcutta, used to be the political capital of India before independence. The city does not have a very old history, as what is Kolkata today, was just a collection of three small villages some 300 years ago. The city, now one of the top four metropolitans of India, was developed by the East India company following their policy of expansion. Kolkata has some of the finest buildings during the British rule in India. The city is famous for the Howrah bridge, the largest bridge in India, the first metro train in India, for being the hometown of Mother Teresa in India and the birthplace of Rabindranath Tagore. Kolkata has a mystical medley of the traditions and modernity.
There is so much to see in this incredible city. The city has different connotations for people. People see it as a city of joy as well as a dirty, crowded, and noisy place. A shoppers paradise, the city has good markets which offer unique novelties on sale. Never to be missed is the exotic Bengali cuisine, which specialises in spicy fish and chicken preparations, along with the globally famous sweets like Sandesh, Rosogolla, Chanar Payesh & Misti Doi. Chinese cuisine is equally popular and is available in the restaurants around the city.
Major Tourist Attractions in Kolkata
Victoria Memorial
A fascinating piece of architecture, which has been converted to a museum, hosts the most memorable artifacts and collectibles from the days of British rule. The building was built from the white marbles of Jodhpur as a memorial to Queen Victoria.
Indian Museum
Established in 1814, the building has beautiful structure. The oldest museum in India, it has one of the rarest collections of archeological importance. Some of the coin in the collection are about 2400 years old.
Eden Garden
The oldest cricket ground of India, gets its name from Mrs. Eden, sister of Lord Auckland. The garden has a Burmese pagoda and a band stand. The cricket ground here can accommodate more than 1 lac people.
Birla Planetarium
Its one of the largest planetariums in the world, and a good place to enjoy. Inaugurated on 29th September, 1962, the internal diameter of the tomb is 82 feet. The auditorium has a capacity of 500 and it conducts regular shows in Hindi, English and Bengali.
Howrah Bridge
An excellent example of engineering techniques, the 450 m long bridge hangs without any towers in the river. The bridge is also one of the busiest bridge in the world, catering to around 100,000 vehicles and innumerable pedestrians. The bridge connects Kolkata and Howrah over river Hooghly.
Shanti Niketan
136 km from Kolkata is the place where Rabindranath Tagore lived and established a university.
Getting There
Air: Kolkata is home to the N.S.C. International airport at Dumdum. Regular flights to rest of India and world are available here.
Rail: Howrah and Sealdah are the two major railway station, which are very well connected to the other parts of the country.
Road: Kolkata, being among the top metros of India, is connected to the rest of India by excellent road network.
Accommodation
Like any big city, Kolkata has numerous options for stay. Luxurious star rated hotels, government owned hotels, guest houses, hostels, lodges and budget hotels provide the tourist with variety to chose from.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Location: The City of Joy is the capital of West Bengal, India.
Tourist Attractions: Victoria Memorial, Indian Museum, Fort William, Eden Garden, Birla Planetarium, Kali Mandir, Howrah Bridge, Belur Math, Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, Botanical Garden, Marble Palace, Tagore House, St. Paul's Cathedral.
Best Buys: Silk & Cotton sarees, Handicrafts, Carpets, Jewelry, Shantiniketan style bags, Bengali sweets.
Best Hangouts: Daimond Harbour, Parks & Gardens, Victoria Memorial, Nicco Park.
Should Not Miss : Relish on the cheese based sweets like Sandesh, Rosogolla and Chanar Payesh. Or have some Misti doi (sweetened curd) and Patali gur confectionery (date palm jaggery, only in winters). Also enjoy the spicy Jhalmudi, a speciality of this region.
Best Activities: Have a walk on the Park street or enjoy the chariot ride near Chowranghee.
Festivals: The world famous Durga Puja is observed in October. Saraswati Puja, a celebration for the goddess of learning in February. Other important festivals are Kali Puja and Diwali.
Nearest Tourist Destinations: Shanti Niketan, Bishnupur and Chandernagar.
When to Visit: October to March
About Kolkata
Kolkata, earlier called as Calcutta, used to be the political capital of India before independence. The city does not have a very old history, as what is Kolkata today, was just a collection of three small villages some 300 years ago. The city, now one of the top four metropolitans of India, was developed by the East India company following their policy of expansion. Kolkata has some of the finest buildings during the British rule in India. The city is famous for the Howrah bridge, the largest bridge in India, the first metro train in India, for being the hometown of Mother Teresa in India and the birthplace of Rabindranath Tagore. Kolkata has a mystical medley of the traditions and modernity.
There is so much to see in this incredible city. The city has different connotations for people. People see it as a city of joy as well as a dirty, crowded, and noisy place. A shoppers paradise, the city has good markets which offer unique novelties on sale. Never to be missed is the exotic Bengali cuisine, which specialises in spicy fish and chicken preparations, along with the globally famous sweets like Sandesh, Rosogolla, Chanar Payesh & Misti Doi. Chinese cuisine is equally popular and is available in the restaurants around the city.
Major Tourist Attractions in Kolkata
Victoria Memorial
A fascinating piece of architecture, which has been converted to a museum, hosts the most memorable artifacts and collectibles from the days of British rule. The building was built from the white marbles of Jodhpur as a memorial to Queen Victoria.
Indian Museum
Established in 1814, the building has beautiful structure. The oldest museum in India, it has one of the rarest collections of archeological importance. Some of the coin in the collection are about 2400 years old.
Eden Garden
The oldest cricket ground of India, gets its name from Mrs. Eden, sister of Lord Auckland. The garden has a Burmese pagoda and a band stand. The cricket ground here can accommodate more than 1 lac people.
Birla Planetarium
Its one of the largest planetariums in the world, and a good place to enjoy. Inaugurated on 29th September, 1962, the internal diameter of the tomb is 82 feet. The auditorium has a capacity of 500 and it conducts regular shows in Hindi, English and Bengali.
Howrah Bridge
An excellent example of engineering techniques, the 450 m long bridge hangs without any towers in the river. The bridge is also one of the busiest bridge in the world, catering to around 100,000 vehicles and innumerable pedestrians. The bridge connects Kolkata and Howrah over river Hooghly.
Shanti Niketan
136 km from Kolkata is the place where Rabindranath Tagore lived and established a university.
Getting There
Air: Kolkata is home to the N.S.C. International airport at Dumdum. Regular flights to rest of India and world are available here.
Rail: Howrah and Sealdah are the two major railway station, which are very well connected to the other parts of the country.
Road: Kolkata, being among the top metros of India, is connected to the rest of India by excellent road network.
Accommodation
Like any big city, Kolkata has numerous options for stay. Luxurious star rated hotels, government owned hotels, guest houses, hostels, lodges and budget hotels provide the tourist with variety to chose from.
East India - Touristic Places in Orissa - Gopalpur-on-Sea
East India - Touristic Places in Orissa - Gopalpur-on-Sea
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Location: Located 16 Km from Berhampur, Orrisa.
Tourist Attractions: Dhavaleswar, Taptapani, Chandragiri, Ganjam
Beach activities : Yatching, wander around the seashore.
About Gopalpur-on-sea
Gopalpur-on-sea, also termed as 'best beach resort in Orissa’ by the visitors, is a lovely laid-back village on sea-shore, carrying an altogether different attitude from the temple towns of Orissa. Gopalpur got its name from an 18th century temple dedicated to Krishna (Gopala). Once a prominent trading sea-port, during the British Raj, Gopalpur has transformed into a quiet and relaxed place. The crumbling walls and pillars of the harbor, are a witness to its past glory of commercial activity. It has been growing into one of India’s prettiest beach resorts.
Take a break from your routine activity and enjoy a lazy though lovely holiday at Gopalpur-at-sea. The beach is spread for miles and covered with coconut groves, casuarina trees and sand dunes. Gopalpur-on-sea is a perfect place for your beach-holiday. Watch the blue waters and high waves, sleepy lagoons and tiny creeks. Its a place where you can goof off on the sand or stroll down the beach and gorge on seafood. Climb up the ancient lighthouse or take a yatch in the midst of the sea-waves. Seafood of Gopalpur is the best thing you can enjoy, besides the golden beach.
Major Tourist Attractions near Gopalpur-on-sea
Taptapani
Situated 67 km away, Taptapani has hot water springs and is a wonderful place to soak away your aches and pains.
Dhavaleswar
Situated 15 km away, Dhavaleshwar is known for its widespread golden beach and a sand bleached Lord Shiva Temple.
Beach Activities
How about yatching? Get a yatch from the old sea-port and go in the sea to tackle the sea-waves. Move to the old lighthouse and climb it up. Watch the lovely scene of the bay from the top of the building. Or just wander around the seashore, watching the blue water, high waves and the sea lagoons.
Getting There
Air: The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar, which is 180 Km from Gopalpur.
Rail: The nearest railway station is Berhampur, only 16 Km from Gopalpur.Berhampur os well connnected to Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, Chennai and other major cities of India.
Road: Gopalpur is connected by road to Berhampur (16-km), Bhubaneshwar (180-km) and Puri (242-km).
Accommodation
Gopalpur has variety of choices to stay, ranging from star class hotels, tourist resorts and beach shacks. Luxury hotels offer rooms facing the sea, and offer you the best services and comfort. Tourists can also get renovated old bungalows on rent. While economy options like the youth hostel are also there.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Location: Located 16 Km from Berhampur, Orrisa.
Tourist Attractions: Dhavaleswar, Taptapani, Chandragiri, Ganjam
Beach activities : Yatching, wander around the seashore.
About Gopalpur-on-sea
Gopalpur-on-sea, also termed as 'best beach resort in Orissa’ by the visitors, is a lovely laid-back village on sea-shore, carrying an altogether different attitude from the temple towns of Orissa. Gopalpur got its name from an 18th century temple dedicated to Krishna (Gopala). Once a prominent trading sea-port, during the British Raj, Gopalpur has transformed into a quiet and relaxed place. The crumbling walls and pillars of the harbor, are a witness to its past glory of commercial activity. It has been growing into one of India’s prettiest beach resorts.
Take a break from your routine activity and enjoy a lazy though lovely holiday at Gopalpur-at-sea. The beach is spread for miles and covered with coconut groves, casuarina trees and sand dunes. Gopalpur-on-sea is a perfect place for your beach-holiday. Watch the blue waters and high waves, sleepy lagoons and tiny creeks. Its a place where you can goof off on the sand or stroll down the beach and gorge on seafood. Climb up the ancient lighthouse or take a yatch in the midst of the sea-waves. Seafood of Gopalpur is the best thing you can enjoy, besides the golden beach.
Major Tourist Attractions near Gopalpur-on-sea
Taptapani
Situated 67 km away, Taptapani has hot water springs and is a wonderful place to soak away your aches and pains.
Dhavaleswar
Situated 15 km away, Dhavaleshwar is known for its widespread golden beach and a sand bleached Lord Shiva Temple.
Beach Activities
How about yatching? Get a yatch from the old sea-port and go in the sea to tackle the sea-waves. Move to the old lighthouse and climb it up. Watch the lovely scene of the bay from the top of the building. Or just wander around the seashore, watching the blue water, high waves and the sea lagoons.
Getting There
Air: The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar, which is 180 Km from Gopalpur.
Rail: The nearest railway station is Berhampur, only 16 Km from Gopalpur.Berhampur os well connnected to Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, Chennai and other major cities of India.
Road: Gopalpur is connected by road to Berhampur (16-km), Bhubaneshwar (180-km) and Puri (242-km).
Accommodation
Gopalpur has variety of choices to stay, ranging from star class hotels, tourist resorts and beach shacks. Luxury hotels offer rooms facing the sea, and offer you the best services and comfort. Tourists can also get renovated old bungalows on rent. While economy options like the youth hostel are also there.
East India - Touristic Places in Sikkim - Yumthang Valley
East India - Touristic Places in Sikkim - Yumthang Valley
http://www.hotelharjaspalace.com
Location: Located 145 kms from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Tourist Attractions Nearby: Chungthang, the Sikkim countryside, Lachung and Kangchendonga National Park are the nearby places which people visit along with Yumthang valley.
Best Activities: Trekking.
About Yumthang Valley
Yumthang is a valley in the high reaches of Himalayas also known as the valley of flowers. The Yumthang valley is situated at an altitude of 1180 ft ( 35564 m) with a close proximity of Tibet. Yumthang is a beautiful destination, covered with Rhododendron and Primula flowers. It also offers view of a stunning array of peaks with Pauhunri and Shundu Tsenpa. A number of hot springs are scattered in the valley providing an unexpected opportunity to feel the warmth of the water even in freezing temperature. Rich in sulfur these springs are believed to have miraculous healing power. A tributary of the river Teesta flows past the valley and there's the town of Lachung, the nearest inhibited center.
NOTE : Foreigners are allowed to visit the valley only if they procure a permit from the tourism department of Sikkim.
Getting There
Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra in West Bengal (124 kms), where flights fly to and fro from Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati. The Bagdogra airport is connected to Gangtok by a helicopter service operating between Gangtok and Bagdogra.
Rail: Visitors can travel by rail from Kolkata up to New Jalpaiguri. Gangtok is about 15-km by road from this place. Taxis are available at the station for hire.
Road: Gangtok is well connected with other parts of Sikkim and the country by weather metaled roads.
Accommodation
Accommodation is not available at the valley. One can stay at Lachung, which is about an hour away from the valley. There are hotels, Lodges and tourist hostels in Lachung but not as compared to other destinations in Sikkim.
HOTEL HARJAS PALACE is the jewel in the embellished Crown of BSERA INTERNATIONAL. After having served and satisfied millions of our guests over many years “HOTEL HARJAS PALACE” is now a land mark of hospitality experience.
Centrally located at karol Bagh. “HOTEL HARJAS PALACE” caters to the requirement of every type of traveler so it is the ideal destination for both the business and leisure travelers. This Budget Hotel is in a very beneficial position.
Budget hotel in delhi at affordable charges among other hotels.This economy hotel provides comfortable stay in delhi main market.It is Situated in karol bagh ,delhi ,india. Discounts are also available time to time.Best
budget accommodation.
SOURCE - http://palgroup.blogspot.com/2007/03/east-india-touristic-places-in-sikkim_30.html
http://www.hotelharjaspalace.com
Location: Located 145 kms from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Tourist Attractions Nearby: Chungthang, the Sikkim countryside, Lachung and Kangchendonga National Park are the nearby places which people visit along with Yumthang valley.
Best Activities: Trekking.
About Yumthang Valley
Yumthang is a valley in the high reaches of Himalayas also known as the valley of flowers. The Yumthang valley is situated at an altitude of 1180 ft ( 35564 m) with a close proximity of Tibet. Yumthang is a beautiful destination, covered with Rhododendron and Primula flowers. It also offers view of a stunning array of peaks with Pauhunri and Shundu Tsenpa. A number of hot springs are scattered in the valley providing an unexpected opportunity to feel the warmth of the water even in freezing temperature. Rich in sulfur these springs are believed to have miraculous healing power. A tributary of the river Teesta flows past the valley and there's the town of Lachung, the nearest inhibited center.
NOTE : Foreigners are allowed to visit the valley only if they procure a permit from the tourism department of Sikkim.
Getting There
Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra in West Bengal (124 kms), where flights fly to and fro from Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati. The Bagdogra airport is connected to Gangtok by a helicopter service operating between Gangtok and Bagdogra.
Rail: Visitors can travel by rail from Kolkata up to New Jalpaiguri. Gangtok is about 15-km by road from this place. Taxis are available at the station for hire.
Road: Gangtok is well connected with other parts of Sikkim and the country by weather metaled roads.
Accommodation
Accommodation is not available at the valley. One can stay at Lachung, which is about an hour away from the valley. There are hotels, Lodges and tourist hostels in Lachung but not as compared to other destinations in Sikkim.
HOTEL HARJAS PALACE is the jewel in the embellished Crown of BSERA INTERNATIONAL. After having served and satisfied millions of our guests over many years “HOTEL HARJAS PALACE” is now a land mark of hospitality experience.
Centrally located at karol Bagh. “HOTEL HARJAS PALACE” caters to the requirement of every type of traveler so it is the ideal destination for both the business and leisure travelers. This Budget Hotel is in a very beneficial position.
Budget hotel in delhi at affordable charges among other hotels.This economy hotel provides comfortable stay in delhi main market.It is Situated in karol bagh ,delhi ,india. Discounts are also available time to time.Best
budget accommodation.
SOURCE - http://palgroup.blogspot.com/2007/03/east-india-touristic-places-in-sikkim_30.html
East India - Touristic Places in Sikkim - Changu Lake
East India - Touristic Places in Sikkim - Changu Lake
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Location: Located just 35 kms from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Tourist Attractions Nearby: Kyonqnosia, Kyonqnosla Alpine Sanctury, Tseten Tashi cave, Nathula pass, river Lungtze Chu and a little Shiva temple are some of the other added attractions.
Best Activities: Fishing and just lazing around.
About Changu Lake
Changu Lake is literally known as the ' source of the lake' in Bhutia language. Situated around 35 kms away from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, this calm lake is located at an altitude of 12,310 ft on the Gangtok Nathu La highway.
The lake is about 1 km. Long, oval in shape, 15 meters deep and is considered sacred by the local people. It's cool, placid water smoothly merges with the scenic beauty around. This placid lake remains frozen during the winter months up to mid-May.
The lake has charming Alpine forests, which is home to some rare animals like the Red Panda, Brahminy ducks and variety of birds. Between the month of May and August one can see a variety of flowers blooming like the Rhododendrous, various species of Primulas, Blue and Yellow Poppies, Iries etc.
NOTE : Foreigners are not allowed to visit Changu Lake and the Indian tourists are allowed only if they have inner permit, since the Lake falls in the restricted area.
Getting There
Since the Changu Lake is nearby Gangtok, one can easily reach it after landing in Gangtok.
Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra in West Bengal (124 kms), where flights fly to and fro from Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati. The Bagdogra airpot is connected to Gangtok by a helicopter service operating between Gangtok and Bagdogra.
Rail: There are two nearest railway stations, Siliguri (114kms) and New Jalpaiguri (125 kms ) connecting Sikkim to the important cities of India.
Road: Gangtok is well connected with other parts of Sikkim and the country by weather metaled roads. Hire a private taxis, Jeeps that ply regulary on the Gangtok Siliguri Highway and reach Changu Lake.
Accommodation
Accommodation is easily available in Gangtok. There are many Hotels, Lodges and tourist hostels, just any one of them according to your requirement.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Location: Located just 35 kms from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Tourist Attractions Nearby: Kyonqnosia, Kyonqnosla Alpine Sanctury, Tseten Tashi cave, Nathula pass, river Lungtze Chu and a little Shiva temple are some of the other added attractions.
Best Activities: Fishing and just lazing around.
About Changu Lake
Changu Lake is literally known as the ' source of the lake' in Bhutia language. Situated around 35 kms away from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, this calm lake is located at an altitude of 12,310 ft on the Gangtok Nathu La highway.
The lake is about 1 km. Long, oval in shape, 15 meters deep and is considered sacred by the local people. It's cool, placid water smoothly merges with the scenic beauty around. This placid lake remains frozen during the winter months up to mid-May.
The lake has charming Alpine forests, which is home to some rare animals like the Red Panda, Brahminy ducks and variety of birds. Between the month of May and August one can see a variety of flowers blooming like the Rhododendrous, various species of Primulas, Blue and Yellow Poppies, Iries etc.
NOTE : Foreigners are not allowed to visit Changu Lake and the Indian tourists are allowed only if they have inner permit, since the Lake falls in the restricted area.
Getting There
Since the Changu Lake is nearby Gangtok, one can easily reach it after landing in Gangtok.
Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra in West Bengal (124 kms), where flights fly to and fro from Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati. The Bagdogra airpot is connected to Gangtok by a helicopter service operating between Gangtok and Bagdogra.
Rail: There are two nearest railway stations, Siliguri (114kms) and New Jalpaiguri (125 kms ) connecting Sikkim to the important cities of India.
Road: Gangtok is well connected with other parts of Sikkim and the country by weather metaled roads. Hire a private taxis, Jeeps that ply regulary on the Gangtok Siliguri Highway and reach Changu Lake.
Accommodation
Accommodation is easily available in Gangtok. There are many Hotels, Lodges and tourist hostels, just any one of them according to your requirement.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Travel Guide - Photocopies and notable numbers
Travel Guide - Photocopies and notable numbers
You need a trusted person at home (especially useful if you can remember their phone number!), a photocopy and scanner(optional), your passports, the emergency numbers for your ATM/Credit Cards, your travel Insurance Document and emergency numbers.
Photocopy your passport - if you're travelling with someone, get a copy with both passports on the same piece of paper. Leave a copy with your trusted friend/family at home - next, have one each in an accessible place - you will be asked to for passport details on checking into many hostels and hotels - you don't want to be rummaging around under your clothes every time - the only people that need to see your identification are border guards and police (and if you get asked by police, go to the police station with them, do not hand over passports on the street - common street scam). Finally, for extra security you can scan a copy of your passport and email it to your self, in the event of losing everything.
Copy down all the emergency telephone numbers for your credit/ATM cards onto two pieces of paper, one for your underclothes wallet, one for a trusted person at home. Also email a copy to your on-line web mail account. In the event of a robbery, it is crucial that you contact these numbers as quickly as possible to avoid being liable for any losses to your accounts.
Get two copies of your travel insurance document, one for your underclothes wallet, and one for your trusted home person.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
You need a trusted person at home (especially useful if you can remember their phone number!), a photocopy and scanner(optional), your passports, the emergency numbers for your ATM/Credit Cards, your travel Insurance Document and emergency numbers.
Photocopy your passport - if you're travelling with someone, get a copy with both passports on the same piece of paper. Leave a copy with your trusted friend/family at home - next, have one each in an accessible place - you will be asked to for passport details on checking into many hostels and hotels - you don't want to be rummaging around under your clothes every time - the only people that need to see your identification are border guards and police (and if you get asked by police, go to the police station with them, do not hand over passports on the street - common street scam). Finally, for extra security you can scan a copy of your passport and email it to your self, in the event of losing everything.
Copy down all the emergency telephone numbers for your credit/ATM cards onto two pieces of paper, one for your underclothes wallet, one for a trusted person at home. Also email a copy to your on-line web mail account. In the event of a robbery, it is crucial that you contact these numbers as quickly as possible to avoid being liable for any losses to your accounts.
Get two copies of your travel insurance document, one for your underclothes wallet, and one for your trusted home person.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Passports and Visas
Travel Guide - Passports and Visas
There are lots of things to do before you travel - by being prepared your journey will go more smoothly, and in the event of an emergency you will have a fall-back.
Visit (links to government sites): US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland all have travel advice sites. (TBA)
Passports and Visas
For every country you want to visit - find out if you need a visa. For a list of embassy and consulate websites, visaproject.com is a site that can help you. Check it out.
Examples: European Union - citizens of member countries can travel around freely, no visas required. Americans can travel to the European Union without visas - be aware that not all of Europe is part of the European Union - Ukraine is not a member and many nationalities need a visa. Europeans need a visa for visiting Australia!
Before applying for a visa, check out your passport, how long is it valid for ? If it is not valid for more than 6 months after the expected end of your travels - get it renewed - many countries require you to have a period of validity on your passport of 6 months beyond your entry, for example Australia.
TravelTIP: Look after your passport - on the road it is one of your two most important possessions, the other being your money/atm/credit card. Do not let these get damaged or stolen. Get an under-clothes wallet, and a watertight plastic bag that is slightly larger than your passport - a zip locking freezer bag is suitable, with a piece of rigid (but thin plastic) that is the same size - place your atm card, credit card, rigid plastic and passport inside the water tight bag, and place all this in your under-clothes wallet. Keep some of your money, a photocopy of your passport in a more accessible place, as you'll be asked for your passport details quite often for administrative purposes, such as checking in to hostels and hotels - so use the photocopy instead.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
There are lots of things to do before you travel - by being prepared your journey will go more smoothly, and in the event of an emergency you will have a fall-back.
Visit (links to government sites): US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland all have travel advice sites. (TBA)
Passports and Visas
For every country you want to visit - find out if you need a visa. For a list of embassy and consulate websites, visaproject.com is a site that can help you. Check it out.
Examples: European Union - citizens of member countries can travel around freely, no visas required. Americans can travel to the European Union without visas - be aware that not all of Europe is part of the European Union - Ukraine is not a member and many nationalities need a visa. Europeans need a visa for visiting Australia!
Before applying for a visa, check out your passport, how long is it valid for ? If it is not valid for more than 6 months after the expected end of your travels - get it renewed - many countries require you to have a period of validity on your passport of 6 months beyond your entry, for example Australia.
TravelTIP: Look after your passport - on the road it is one of your two most important possessions, the other being your money/atm/credit card. Do not let these get damaged or stolen. Get an under-clothes wallet, and a watertight plastic bag that is slightly larger than your passport - a zip locking freezer bag is suitable, with a piece of rigid (but thin plastic) that is the same size - place your atm card, credit card, rigid plastic and passport inside the water tight bag, and place all this in your under-clothes wallet. Keep some of your money, a photocopy of your passport in a more accessible place, as you'll be asked for your passport details quite often for administrative purposes, such as checking in to hostels and hotels - so use the photocopy instead.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Money
Travel Guide - Money
Where is your money going to come from on the road? Experienced travellers usually have a variety of sources. Hard currency - US Dollars, Euros, GBP ( Pounds Sterling) in that order are the most readily exchangeable (nearer Europe swap the Euro and dollars position) - it's recommended that you have about enough cash for a week of survival (lodgings, food) in your destination. Avoid using this money - you'll lose out on exchange rates trying to get it back later.
Next - your credit card and your ATM card - make sure that they don't expire mid trip! Get replacements if this is the case. Some people recommend splitting the locations of cards between your pack and your person - the logic being - if you are robbed and your stash is discovered, then at least you'll have some money/ATM card elsewhere. I keep my cards on my person and hide some of my cash in my pack My logic is "if I'm robbed - my pack is the most likely thing that would be taken, from the top of a bus or when sleeping on a train, so why lose something as important as an ATM card ?"http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Where is your money going to come from on the road? Experienced travellers usually have a variety of sources. Hard currency - US Dollars, Euros, GBP ( Pounds Sterling) in that order are the most readily exchangeable (nearer Europe swap the Euro and dollars position) - it's recommended that you have about enough cash for a week of survival (lodgings, food) in your destination. Avoid using this money - you'll lose out on exchange rates trying to get it back later.
Next - your credit card and your ATM card - make sure that they don't expire mid trip! Get replacements if this is the case. Some people recommend splitting the locations of cards between your pack and your person - the logic being - if you are robbed and your stash is discovered, then at least you'll have some money/ATM card elsewhere. I keep my cards on my person and hide some of my cash in my pack My logic is "if I'm robbed - my pack is the most likely thing that would be taken, from the top of a bus or when sleeping on a train, so why lose something as important as an ATM card ?"http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Medical Kit
Travel Guide - Medical Kit
Always carry a small medical kit, which should include: bandages, pain killers, antiseptic wipes, antiseptic cream, plasters, scissors, throat soothing tablets, iodine, diarrhea tablets, etc. Put this in your backpack, not your daypack (carry on luggage), when flying - to avoid problems with airport security.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Always carry a small medical kit, which should include: bandages, pain killers, antiseptic wipes, antiseptic cream, plasters, scissors, throat soothing tablets, iodine, diarrhea tablets, etc. Put this in your backpack, not your daypack (carry on luggage), when flying - to avoid problems with airport security.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - How to Pack
Travel Guide - How to Pack
Right, so you have all this stuff and you have to get it into this now much smaller backpack. Packing will become second nature to you after months on the road, but for now it's all new. How do you do it ?
Simple tips: keep the heavy things towards the bottom of your pack, put the lighter stuff and things you'll need soonest nearer the top, not forgetting to make guide books easily accessible.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Right, so you have all this stuff and you have to get it into this now much smaller backpack. Packing will become second nature to you after months on the road, but for now it's all new. How do you do it ?
Simple tips: keep the heavy things towards the bottom of your pack, put the lighter stuff and things you'll need soonest nearer the top, not forgetting to make guide books easily accessible.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - How to Pack
Travel Guide - How to Pack
Right, so you have all this stuff and you have to get it into this now much smaller backpack. Packing will become second nature to you after months on the road, but for now it's all new. How do you do it ?
Simple tips: keep the heavy things towards the bottom of your pack, put the lighter stuff and things you'll need soonest nearer the top, not forgetting to make guide books easily accessible.
http://www.hotelharjaspalace.com
Right, so you have all this stuff and you have to get it into this now much smaller backpack. Packing will become second nature to you after months on the road, but for now it's all new. How do you do it ?
Simple tips: keep the heavy things towards the bottom of your pack, put the lighter stuff and things you'll need soonest nearer the top, not forgetting to make guide books easily accessible.
http://www.hotelharjaspalace.com
Travel Guide - Driving
Travel Guide - Driving
Hire a car or buy a car ? Buying a car in New Zealand is really popular. For some the road trip is the ultimate form of travel. Independence, complete and total, and you can go places that no bus or train could get you to. Two major options - buy a car, only applicable in some countries, and you have to consider insurance requirements, and other legal requirements. Also if you own a car and it goes wrong you bear the cost of putting it right. Renting a car is a simpler option - but can be more costly. However, it has the ultimate flexibility of not having to be responsible for any repairs, or selling the vehicle at the end of your travels. Do be aware accidents and claims against the insurance of the vehicle might apply to your insurance when back home.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Hire a car or buy a car ? Buying a car in New Zealand is really popular. For some the road trip is the ultimate form of travel. Independence, complete and total, and you can go places that no bus or train could get you to. Two major options - buy a car, only applicable in some countries, and you have to consider insurance requirements, and other legal requirements. Also if you own a car and it goes wrong you bear the cost of putting it right. Renting a car is a simpler option - but can be more costly. However, it has the ultimate flexibility of not having to be responsible for any repairs, or selling the vehicle at the end of your travels. Do be aware accidents and claims against the insurance of the vehicle might apply to your insurance when back home.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Driving
Travel Guide - Driving
Hire a car or buy a car ? Buying a car in New Zealand is really popular. For some the road trip is the ultimate form of travel. Independence, complete and total, and you can go places that no bus or train could get you to. Two major options - buy a car, only applicable in some countries, and you have to consider insurance requirements, and other legal requirements. Also if you own a car and it goes wrong you bear the cost of putting it right. Renting a car is a simpler option - but can be more costly. However, it has the ultimate flexibility of not having to be responsible for any repairs, or selling the vehicle at the end of your travels. Do be aware accidents and claims against the insurance of the vehicle might apply to your insurance when back home.
http://www.hotelharjaspalace.com
Hire a car or buy a car ? Buying a car in New Zealand is really popular. For some the road trip is the ultimate form of travel. Independence, complete and total, and you can go places that no bus or train could get you to. Two major options - buy a car, only applicable in some countries, and you have to consider insurance requirements, and other legal requirements. Also if you own a car and it goes wrong you bear the cost of putting it right. Renting a car is a simpler option - but can be more costly. However, it has the ultimate flexibility of not having to be responsible for any repairs, or selling the vehicle at the end of your travels. Do be aware accidents and claims against the insurance of the vehicle might apply to your insurance when back home.
http://www.hotelharjaspalace.com
Travel Guide - Budget Airlines
Travel Guide - Budget Airlines
The single most popular form of travel for the independent traveler. Fast, economically the cheapest, with a high safety record, the jet plane has revolutionized the travel industry. Had Jules Verne been alive today we would have been reading "Around the world in 80 hours", which gives some idea of the revolution that the jet has brought about. Unfortunately, despite its many advantages, there is one large negative to jet travel, which has been largely ignored until today. This is the huge amount of CO2 released during each flight. It is possible that as the world grows in knowledge and concern about the damage that this release causes, the cost of jet travel will rise. Combined with jet travel's dependency on oil, the age of cheap flights that we currently see might be limited.
Now back to the good news. Flights are at the moment cheap, plentiful, and go to just about everywhere; it seems in this day and age that there is nowhere in the world that is more than 48 hours from anywhere else.
Single tickets
Buying single tickets from place to place in the course of your travels is the most flexible way to travel. It is also more expensive than a return flight, or a Round the World Ticket. However - it is possible to pick up cheaper local options from local travel agents than you may find on the Internet, or from travel agents back home.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
The single most popular form of travel for the independent traveler. Fast, economically the cheapest, with a high safety record, the jet plane has revolutionized the travel industry. Had Jules Verne been alive today we would have been reading "Around the world in 80 hours", which gives some idea of the revolution that the jet has brought about. Unfortunately, despite its many advantages, there is one large negative to jet travel, which has been largely ignored until today. This is the huge amount of CO2 released during each flight. It is possible that as the world grows in knowledge and concern about the damage that this release causes, the cost of jet travel will rise. Combined with jet travel's dependency on oil, the age of cheap flights that we currently see might be limited.
Now back to the good news. Flights are at the moment cheap, plentiful, and go to just about everywhere; it seems in this day and age that there is nowhere in the world that is more than 48 hours from anywhere else.
Single tickets
Buying single tickets from place to place in the course of your travels is the most flexible way to travel. It is also more expensive than a return flight, or a Round the World Ticket. However - it is possible to pick up cheaper local options from local travel agents than you may find on the Internet, or from travel agents back home.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Backpacks Versus Suitcases
Travel Guide - Backpacks Versus Suitcases
Ok so you are planning to travel, and considering taking a suitcase:
Advantages of a suitcase are: easy access to the contents, less likely to get caught in baggage conveyors, easier to store, great in airports and hotels when the little wheels touch down and smoothly roll on the concourse floors.
Disadvantages You can't carry most suitcases for more than a few minutes. This is the main and most important disadvantage. From the point you decide to take a suitcase instead of a backpack you are tied to taking taxis, cars, booking your hotels and hostels in advance. You lose freedom. This is the advantage of a backpack and for the independent traveller freedom is one of the most important features of the journey.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Ok so you are planning to travel, and considering taking a suitcase:
Advantages of a suitcase are: easy access to the contents, less likely to get caught in baggage conveyors, easier to store, great in airports and hotels when the little wheels touch down and smoothly roll on the concourse floors.
Disadvantages You can't carry most suitcases for more than a few minutes. This is the main and most important disadvantage. From the point you decide to take a suitcase instead of a backpack you are tied to taking taxis, cars, booking your hotels and hostels in advance. You lose freedom. This is the advantage of a backpack and for the independent traveller freedom is one of the most important features of the journey.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Backpacker Travel Insurance
Travel Guide - Backpacker Travel Insurance
Backpackers Travel Insurance
The Travelblog Travel Guide tries to be as unbiased as possible, offering only the best advice and does not normally recommend particular products and companies. One exception is made here: for backpacker insurance, no company has yet offered a product that competes with World Nomads in terms of features and price. They offer travel insurance to all countries - (with sensible exceptions - you aren't covered for travel to war zones) - and do not leave out the most interesting places, like other insurance companies do. You can also purchase your insurance when you have already left! - Since most backpackers leave travel insurance to the last minute - and beyond - this is a fantastic feature. In addition, should you decide to stay on beyond your original travel dates, you can get a new policy on the Internet without having to be in your country of residence. For these reasons Travelblog Travel Guide unreservedly recommends World Nomads, but you should nevertheless still shop around.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Backpackers Travel Insurance
The Travelblog Travel Guide tries to be as unbiased as possible, offering only the best advice and does not normally recommend particular products and companies. One exception is made here: for backpacker insurance, no company has yet offered a product that competes with World Nomads in terms of features and price. They offer travel insurance to all countries - (with sensible exceptions - you aren't covered for travel to war zones) - and do not leave out the most interesting places, like other insurance companies do. You can also purchase your insurance when you have already left! - Since most backpackers leave travel insurance to the last minute - and beyond - this is a fantastic feature. In addition, should you decide to stay on beyond your original travel dates, you can get a new policy on the Internet without having to be in your country of residence. For these reasons Travelblog Travel Guide unreservedly recommends World Nomads, but you should nevertheless still shop around.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Travel Insurance
Travel Guide - Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is probably one of the most overlooked aspects of preparing for a trip. Getting the right insurance cover is very important. Choose the wrong policy and if the worst happens you could find that you are not covered - do be aware of what you are covered for and what you need to arrange separate insurance for. By the same rule, visiting a foreign country on a short city break is very low risk and you might well be covered for medical expenses by national reciprocal agreements. In this case, travel insurance recommended by many travel agents is extremely expensive, mainly due to commission plus administrative costs, and you will pay disproportionately to the risk by a huge factor.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Insurance is probably one of the most overlooked aspects of preparing for a trip. Getting the right insurance cover is very important. Choose the wrong policy and if the worst happens you could find that you are not covered - do be aware of what you are covered for and what you need to arrange separate insurance for. By the same rule, visiting a foreign country on a short city break is very low risk and you might well be covered for medical expenses by national reciprocal agreements. In this case, travel insurance recommended by many travel agents is extremely expensive, mainly due to commission plus administrative costs, and you will pay disproportionately to the risk by a huge factor.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Trip Styles (continued) »
Travel Guide - Trip Styles (continued) »
Historical/ Educational.
The world is full of interesting history, and kind souls globally have put the information on display for visitors to share. It is possible to go to books, encyclopedias and surf the web and learn vast amounts, but it's far more interesting to visit the scene of the events and assimilate the history where it all happened. The down- sides of this are that sometimes museums or sites have either only details in the local language, or perhaps a token amount in English. Some notable locations where history really comes to life, in not necessarily pleasant detail are:
Eastern Europe: learn about 2 world wars, oppression during Soviet occupation, crushed rebellions, and visit some of the most notorious locations in the world.
Vietnam: crawl through tunnels built by the Viet Cong.
Latin America: Pyramids and ancient cities from lost civilizations.
Another aspect of educational trips is learning a language. You'll find language schools in many countries, some providing home-stays with local families, allowing you to totally immerse yourself in the language.
Photographer's Paradise.
A camera, a lot of time, with fantastic, unusual scenery, people, and architecture to record - you've made it to photographer's paradise. This style of trip is more popular than you might think. Since trekking with tripods and lenses can be hard work, the intrepid photographer often sacrifices comfort for art. Although relatively few people make a full-time living from travel photography, (a few of the luckier and talented ones become famous and lead very interesting lives as a result their efforts), most travellers use photographs as a way to record their travels and preserve the memories forever.
"I have discovered photography. Now I can kill myself. I have nothing else to learn." -- Pablo Picasso
Picasso takes it a little to extremes, but photography is an art form, which is very useful to all types of traveller.
Party Tour!
Party Tours such as round the party Islands of Phonon Keng, booze trips down the eastern coast of Australia or on one of the infamous party buses, such as the Kiwi Experience are in abundance. If lots of drink, good company and hangovers on luxury 57 seater coaches with a party in a different town each day is your idea of fun, this is an ideal option.
Growing and Knowing Together.
Taking some real time to get to know your partner is common, and what better way to do it than to see the world together. Though be warned: there is a risk that sometimes when the chips are down and the stress levels are up, the strain can tell. Can the relationship survive the stresses, strains and temptations of an extended period of travel ? If it can, one of the most colorful and exciting experiences of your life will be enhanced by becoming a shared experience with a chosen partner.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Historical/ Educational.
The world is full of interesting history, and kind souls globally have put the information on display for visitors to share. It is possible to go to books, encyclopedias and surf the web and learn vast amounts, but it's far more interesting to visit the scene of the events and assimilate the history where it all happened. The down- sides of this are that sometimes museums or sites have either only details in the local language, or perhaps a token amount in English. Some notable locations where history really comes to life, in not necessarily pleasant detail are:
Eastern Europe: learn about 2 world wars, oppression during Soviet occupation, crushed rebellions, and visit some of the most notorious locations in the world.
Vietnam: crawl through tunnels built by the Viet Cong.
Latin America: Pyramids and ancient cities from lost civilizations.
Another aspect of educational trips is learning a language. You'll find language schools in many countries, some providing home-stays with local families, allowing you to totally immerse yourself in the language.
Photographer's Paradise.
A camera, a lot of time, with fantastic, unusual scenery, people, and architecture to record - you've made it to photographer's paradise. This style of trip is more popular than you might think. Since trekking with tripods and lenses can be hard work, the intrepid photographer often sacrifices comfort for art. Although relatively few people make a full-time living from travel photography, (a few of the luckier and talented ones become famous and lead very interesting lives as a result their efforts), most travellers use photographs as a way to record their travels and preserve the memories forever.
"I have discovered photography. Now I can kill myself. I have nothing else to learn." -- Pablo Picasso
Picasso takes it a little to extremes, but photography is an art form, which is very useful to all types of traveller.
Party Tour!
Party Tours such as round the party Islands of Phonon Keng, booze trips down the eastern coast of Australia or on one of the infamous party buses, such as the Kiwi Experience are in abundance. If lots of drink, good company and hangovers on luxury 57 seater coaches with a party in a different town each day is your idea of fun, this is an ideal option.
Growing and Knowing Together.
Taking some real time to get to know your partner is common, and what better way to do it than to see the world together. Though be warned: there is a risk that sometimes when the chips are down and the stress levels are up, the strain can tell. Can the relationship survive the stresses, strains and temptations of an extended period of travel ? If it can, one of the most colorful and exciting experiences of your life will be enhanced by becoming a shared experience with a chosen partner.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - What to Take
Travel Guide - What to Take
The biggest mistake the new independent traveller ever makes is taking too much. Trying to be prepared for everything you will encounter in an extended period away, will mean that you have too much in your pack and are not prepared for the everyday reality of travel, when you have to carry that pack. Even if you are strong, a heavy pack will dig into your shoulders causing pain and backache a lot faster than you might imagine.
TravelTip! - 15Kg (33lbs) should be your maximum. To weigh your pack, stand on some scales, note the weight, put on your pack, and stand on the scales again. Subtract the first number from the second and you have your pack weight. Or you could simply put your backpack on the scales and get its weight without having to do the maths.
Now that said, some people will of necessity carry more. The photographer, musician, or diving instructor will often take extra heavy but essential equipment. That's a decision for them and no doubt there will be days when the extra weight is quietly cursed.
Essentials:
Backpack or suitcase
Clothing;(Hot/Normal Destination)
Wind and waterproof jacket - try to get one that is breatheable.
Fleece, designed for under the jacket when cold and wet, or used on its own when just cold.
2x Lightweight shirts/blouses - long sleeves - for warm nights with mosquitos about, and which can double up as slightly smarter wear.
2x Light weight travel trousers, long legs, suitable for trekking. Consider zip off trousers/pants that turn into shorts.
3x Tshirts
2x shorts/skirts.
Socks and underwear - matter of some debate, between 5 and 10 pairs.
Shoes - designed for hiking/walking, but also not so shabby as to look out of place in a restaurant.
Sandals - for when you're not wearing the shoes.
Plastic slippers - known as thongs, flip flops as well, for use in showers or just lounging around.
Second bag - light weight, collapses down to a small size, designed to be packed away 90% of the time
Duct Tape - essential, massively strong tape good for fixing just about anything. Black electrical tape, slightly different uses.
Guidebook - maximum two - one for your destination and the next area, you'll have to pick up the rest as you go, carrying too many is crazy.
First Aid Kit - bandages, disinfectant wipes, antiseptic cream, pain killers.
Sun glasses - get a good quality pair that protects against UV in your home country, those on the streets often come from dubious origin and may not protect your eyes again harmful UV rays.
Swimsuit
Sleeping bag - for the occasions where you don't have bedding provided, or you don't trust it.
Silk or cotton sleeping bag insert.
Earplugs - if you can wear these, they are an essential. You will be in dormitories where someone snores, where the doors bang, where the sound of the motorway next door is too loud for sleep. Earplugs will allow you to sleep when otherwise you can't.
Nice to Haves:
Fiction books - take two paperbacks, when you've read one, trade it for another - hostels often have a trade bookshelf.
Music Player - CD Player, Ipod, Cassettes, Minidisk - what you take is up to you. (See the techie part of this guide).
Camera - SLR or digital - as long as you have something to record your adventures. More in the toys section.
Torch - small one - a LED head torch is perfect, as it allows your hands to be free when in use.http://www.oasistravelindia.com
The biggest mistake the new independent traveller ever makes is taking too much. Trying to be prepared for everything you will encounter in an extended period away, will mean that you have too much in your pack and are not prepared for the everyday reality of travel, when you have to carry that pack. Even if you are strong, a heavy pack will dig into your shoulders causing pain and backache a lot faster than you might imagine.
TravelTip! - 15Kg (33lbs) should be your maximum. To weigh your pack, stand on some scales, note the weight, put on your pack, and stand on the scales again. Subtract the first number from the second and you have your pack weight. Or you could simply put your backpack on the scales and get its weight without having to do the maths.
Now that said, some people will of necessity carry more. The photographer, musician, or diving instructor will often take extra heavy but essential equipment. That's a decision for them and no doubt there will be days when the extra weight is quietly cursed.
Essentials:
Backpack or suitcase
Clothing;(Hot/Normal Destination)
Wind and waterproof jacket - try to get one that is breatheable.
Fleece, designed for under the jacket when cold and wet, or used on its own when just cold.
2x Lightweight shirts/blouses - long sleeves - for warm nights with mosquitos about, and which can double up as slightly smarter wear.
2x Light weight travel trousers, long legs, suitable for trekking. Consider zip off trousers/pants that turn into shorts.
3x Tshirts
2x shorts/skirts.
Socks and underwear - matter of some debate, between 5 and 10 pairs.
Shoes - designed for hiking/walking, but also not so shabby as to look out of place in a restaurant.
Sandals - for when you're not wearing the shoes.
Plastic slippers - known as thongs, flip flops as well, for use in showers or just lounging around.
Second bag - light weight, collapses down to a small size, designed to be packed away 90% of the time
Duct Tape - essential, massively strong tape good for fixing just about anything. Black electrical tape, slightly different uses.
Guidebook - maximum two - one for your destination and the next area, you'll have to pick up the rest as you go, carrying too many is crazy.
First Aid Kit - bandages, disinfectant wipes, antiseptic cream, pain killers.
Sun glasses - get a good quality pair that protects against UV in your home country, those on the streets often come from dubious origin and may not protect your eyes again harmful UV rays.
Swimsuit
Sleeping bag - for the occasions where you don't have bedding provided, or you don't trust it.
Silk or cotton sleeping bag insert.
Earplugs - if you can wear these, they are an essential. You will be in dormitories where someone snores, where the doors bang, where the sound of the motorway next door is too loud for sleep. Earplugs will allow you to sleep when otherwise you can't.
Nice to Haves:
Fiction books - take two paperbacks, when you've read one, trade it for another - hostels often have a trade bookshelf.
Music Player - CD Player, Ipod, Cassettes, Minidisk - what you take is up to you. (See the techie part of this guide).
Camera - SLR or digital - as long as you have something to record your adventures. More in the toys section.
Torch - small one - a LED head torch is perfect, as it allows your hands to be free when in use.http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide-Beginners Guide 2Independent Travel-Trip Style
Travel Guide-Beginners Guide 2Independent Travel-Trip Style
Historical/ Educational.
The world is full of interesting history, and kind souls globally have put the information on display for visitors to share. It is possible to go to books, encyclopedias and surf the web and learn vast amounts, but it's far more interesting to visit the scene of the events and assimilate the history where it all happened. The down- sides of this are that sometimes museums or sites have either only details in the local language, or perhaps a token amount in English. Some notable locations where history really comes to life, in not necessarily pleasant detail are:
Eastern Europe: learn about 2 world wars, oppression during Soviet occupation, crushed rebellions, and visit some of the most notorious locations in the world.
Vietnam: crawl through tunnels built by the Viet Cong.
Latin America: Pyramids and ancient cities from lost civilizations.
Another aspect of educational trips is learning a language. You'll find language schools in many countries, some providing home-stays with local families, allowing you to totally immerse yourself in the language.
Photographer's Paradise.
A camera, a lot of time, with fantastic, unusual scenery, people, and architecture to record - you've made it to photographer's paradise. This style of trip is more popular than you might think. Since trekking with tripods and lenses can be hard work, the intrepid photographer often sacrifices comfort for art. Although relatively few people make a full-time living from travel photography, (a few of the luckier and talented ones become famous and lead very interesting lives as a result their efforts), most travellers use photographs as a way to record their travels and preserve the memories forever.
"I have discovered photography. Now I can kill myself. I have nothing else to learn." -- Pablo Picasso
Picasso takes it a little to extremes, but photography is an art form, which is very useful to all types of traveller.
Party Tour!
Party Tours such as round the party Islands of Phonon Keng, booze trips down the eastern coast of Australia or on one of the infamous party buses, such as the Kiwi Experience are in abundance. If lots of drink, good company and hangovers on luxury 57 seater coaches with a party in a different town each day is your idea of fun, this is an ideal option.
Growing and Knowing Together.
Taking some real time to get to know your partner is common, and what better way to do it than to see the world together. Though be warned: there is a risk that sometimes when the chips are down and the stress levels are up, the strain can tell. Can the relationship survive the stresses, strains and temptations of an extended period of travel ? If it can, one of the most colorful and exciting experiences of your life will be enhanced by becoming a shared experience with a chosen partner.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Historical/ Educational.
The world is full of interesting history, and kind souls globally have put the information on display for visitors to share. It is possible to go to books, encyclopedias and surf the web and learn vast amounts, but it's far more interesting to visit the scene of the events and assimilate the history where it all happened. The down- sides of this are that sometimes museums or sites have either only details in the local language, or perhaps a token amount in English. Some notable locations where history really comes to life, in not necessarily pleasant detail are:
Eastern Europe: learn about 2 world wars, oppression during Soviet occupation, crushed rebellions, and visit some of the most notorious locations in the world.
Vietnam: crawl through tunnels built by the Viet Cong.
Latin America: Pyramids and ancient cities from lost civilizations.
Another aspect of educational trips is learning a language. You'll find language schools in many countries, some providing home-stays with local families, allowing you to totally immerse yourself in the language.
Photographer's Paradise.
A camera, a lot of time, with fantastic, unusual scenery, people, and architecture to record - you've made it to photographer's paradise. This style of trip is more popular than you might think. Since trekking with tripods and lenses can be hard work, the intrepid photographer often sacrifices comfort for art. Although relatively few people make a full-time living from travel photography, (a few of the luckier and talented ones become famous and lead very interesting lives as a result their efforts), most travellers use photographs as a way to record their travels and preserve the memories forever.
"I have discovered photography. Now I can kill myself. I have nothing else to learn." -- Pablo Picasso
Picasso takes it a little to extremes, but photography is an art form, which is very useful to all types of traveller.
Party Tour!
Party Tours such as round the party Islands of Phonon Keng, booze trips down the eastern coast of Australia or on one of the infamous party buses, such as the Kiwi Experience are in abundance. If lots of drink, good company and hangovers on luxury 57 seater coaches with a party in a different town each day is your idea of fun, this is an ideal option.
Growing and Knowing Together.
Taking some real time to get to know your partner is common, and what better way to do it than to see the world together. Though be warned: there is a risk that sometimes when the chips are down and the stress levels are up, the strain can tell. Can the relationship survive the stresses, strains and temptations of an extended period of travel ? If it can, one of the most colorful and exciting experiences of your life will be enhanced by becoming a shared experience with a chosen partner.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Travel Insurance - What to Look For
Travel Guide - Travel Insurance - What to Look For
Things to look for
Look for good country cover, particularly at the current time (early 2005), where policies sometimes do not include Thailand or other countries affected by the South East Asia Tsunami. Make sure that the activities that are covered include things like hitchhiking, hiking and if you foresee it - scuba diving, bungee jumping, normal team sports.
Don't always look at the headline figures - what are the chances of you need $1 million legal expenses? Much lower than you claiming on baggage lost in the airport.
If you are taking specific expensive items such as laptops and cameras, finding a general purpose travel insurance package that covers these items will be difficult. Make a decision here: get some quotes for specific insurance for these items, work out the cost of replacing the item - and choose whether or not to buy the often high premium or cover the cost of a potential replacement yourself.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Things to look for
Look for good country cover, particularly at the current time (early 2005), where policies sometimes do not include Thailand or other countries affected by the South East Asia Tsunami. Make sure that the activities that are covered include things like hitchhiking, hiking and if you foresee it - scuba diving, bungee jumping, normal team sports.
Don't always look at the headline figures - what are the chances of you need $1 million legal expenses? Much lower than you claiming on baggage lost in the airport.
If you are taking specific expensive items such as laptops and cameras, finding a general purpose travel insurance package that covers these items will be difficult. Make a decision here: get some quotes for specific insurance for these items, work out the cost of replacing the item - and choose whether or not to buy the often high premium or cover the cost of a potential replacement yourself.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - RTWs
Travel Guide - RTWs
Many major airlines have clubbed together to form groups that offer Round the World Tickets. For the independent budget traveller this is the most economical way to see the world. Typically tickets cost around US$2000 and will see you completely circumnavigating the globe. Many are actually really flexible - you can call a number and have the date and time of your flight changed at very little or no cost - when you're choosing a ticket keep this as a consideration, chances are you will phone up and stay that bit longer somewhere.
What do you need to think about when purchasing a round the world ticket ? Locations, follow the rules of the ticket, some say you can only go in one direction - eg. East. However, for jet lag, it's easier going west! But for some reason going east is more popular.
Don't forget your visa! Some countries require visas even just for passing through - the big one to consider is the USA - make sure that you know what visa you require for the USA and if you need a transit visa.
How do round the world tickets work? Groups of airlines form alliances to offer near-global coverage. They then offer flights on the airline that covers each leg of the journey, which allows a round the world ticket to offer many more destinations.
Group One - StarAlliance
Air Canada, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, bmi, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, SAS, Singapore Airlines, Spanair, Thai Airways International, United, US Airways and VARIG
Features of a Star Alliance Round-the-World Ticket
You can travel with any member airline (there are some flight exceptions)
Start and end of your journey have to be located in the same country
Only one Atlantic and one Pacific crossing should be included in your itinerary.
Available for travel in First, Business or Economy Class! (where your budget traveler will find oneself)
There are usually fare levels. StarAlliance has levels allowing you to travel up to 29,000, 34,000 or 39,000 miles.
Fares will depend on the origin and the class of service of your journey.
There is no high season surcharge, so it does not matter when you depart. You simply need to determine the class of service and the total mileage you need. A major positive for the independent traveler.
If your journey originates in Canada, USA or Mexico, you can buy your ticket up to seven days before departure. In all other cases, you can buy your ticket at any time before you depart.
Your journey may last any time between 10 days and a year. You can change the dates of most of your flights at any time, except for those flights up to and including your first international or intercontinental journey. For a small fee, you will be permitted to change destinations.
You can take as few as three, or as many as 15 stopovers in different cities (within the permitted mileage). The maximum number of stopovers within certain regions may be limited.
These tickets are available from a travel agent representing one of the airlines in the group.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Many major airlines have clubbed together to form groups that offer Round the World Tickets. For the independent budget traveller this is the most economical way to see the world. Typically tickets cost around US$2000 and will see you completely circumnavigating the globe. Many are actually really flexible - you can call a number and have the date and time of your flight changed at very little or no cost - when you're choosing a ticket keep this as a consideration, chances are you will phone up and stay that bit longer somewhere.
What do you need to think about when purchasing a round the world ticket ? Locations, follow the rules of the ticket, some say you can only go in one direction - eg. East. However, for jet lag, it's easier going west! But for some reason going east is more popular.
Don't forget your visa! Some countries require visas even just for passing through - the big one to consider is the USA - make sure that you know what visa you require for the USA and if you need a transit visa.
How do round the world tickets work? Groups of airlines form alliances to offer near-global coverage. They then offer flights on the airline that covers each leg of the journey, which allows a round the world ticket to offer many more destinations.
Group One - StarAlliance
Air Canada, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, bmi, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, SAS, Singapore Airlines, Spanair, Thai Airways International, United, US Airways and VARIG
Features of a Star Alliance Round-the-World Ticket
You can travel with any member airline (there are some flight exceptions)
Start and end of your journey have to be located in the same country
Only one Atlantic and one Pacific crossing should be included in your itinerary.
Available for travel in First, Business or Economy Class! (where your budget traveler will find oneself)
There are usually fare levels. StarAlliance has levels allowing you to travel up to 29,000, 34,000 or 39,000 miles.
Fares will depend on the origin and the class of service of your journey.
There is no high season surcharge, so it does not matter when you depart. You simply need to determine the class of service and the total mileage you need. A major positive for the independent traveler.
If your journey originates in Canada, USA or Mexico, you can buy your ticket up to seven days before departure. In all other cases, you can buy your ticket at any time before you depart.
Your journey may last any time between 10 days and a year. You can change the dates of most of your flights at any time, except for those flights up to and including your first international or intercontinental journey. For a small fee, you will be permitted to change destinations.
You can take as few as three, or as many as 15 stopovers in different cities (within the permitted mileage). The maximum number of stopovers within certain regions may be limited.
These tickets are available from a travel agent representing one of the airlines in the group.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Planning and Preparation -Year Long Travels-2
Travel Guide - Planning and Preparation -Year Long Travels-2
Career Break
Job just getting too much at the moment ? Ask your employer for a career break. If you do and if it's a choice between a resignation or a sabbatical, many employers will opt for the sabbatical. One of the advantages of this approach is that of security, you know you have a job to go back to, though there is a disadvantage - you know you've got a job to go back to.
The other option, resignation, is sometimes preferable - perhaps if the job market is bad, or if a change in direction is wanted. Employers often respect time out to go travelling rather than being unemployed.
Satisfying a case of wanderlust.
Itchy feet? - you've got either athletes' foot or a strong case of wanderlust. There is only one thing to do. Get out there and see some things. You probably know where you want to go, maybe it's a specific thing - do you have a Japan fetish ? Well go - it's cheaper than you think. Take the time you need and do it.
If you still have itchy feet - there are a huge number of athletes' foot cures available at your local pharmacy. Still got a problem ? - uh oh - you've caught the travel bug - there is only one cure for this particular disease.
Something I have to do before I die.
This slightly morbid heading goes to the category of wish fulfillment, for some it's seeing the Taj Mahal, for others scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef, or climbing the Himalayas - you know what it is, go do it.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Career Break
Job just getting too much at the moment ? Ask your employer for a career break. If you do and if it's a choice between a resignation or a sabbatical, many employers will opt for the sabbatical. One of the advantages of this approach is that of security, you know you have a job to go back to, though there is a disadvantage - you know you've got a job to go back to.
The other option, resignation, is sometimes preferable - perhaps if the job market is bad, or if a change in direction is wanted. Employers often respect time out to go travelling rather than being unemployed.
Satisfying a case of wanderlust.
Itchy feet? - you've got either athletes' foot or a strong case of wanderlust. There is only one thing to do. Get out there and see some things. You probably know where you want to go, maybe it's a specific thing - do you have a Japan fetish ? Well go - it's cheaper than you think. Take the time you need and do it.
If you still have itchy feet - there are a huge number of athletes' foot cures available at your local pharmacy. Still got a problem ? - uh oh - you've caught the travel bug - there is only one cure for this particular disease.
Something I have to do before I die.
This slightly morbid heading goes to the category of wish fulfillment, for some it's seeing the Taj Mahal, for others scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef, or climbing the Himalayas - you know what it is, go do it.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Planning and Preparation -Year Long Travels-1
Travel Guide - Planning and Preparation -Year Long Travels-1
Whatever your circumstances you can go somewhere - the biggest limiting factors will be how far and for how long. To really experience life in another culture you need time, as much time as you can get. All we can suggest at this point is get as long as you can. A round the world trip in 9 months will feel rushed, 9 months in a city and you'll feel like you know it well. 9 months studying a foreign language and you'll be pretty good and in some cases fluent. Conversely - some will get itchy feet after a week in one place.
Budget
Your budget and commitments will limit how far you can go and for how long. Find out the typical daily expenses for where you want to go, including flight costs. Also don't forget to factor in overland transport costs to your calculations. A region will always have expensive hot spots, so you can save money by avoiding these areas and concentrate on other less expensive areas. By stretching your cash you will see more and worry less about things when you get back.
Commitments
Sorry everyone I can't pay off your mortgage, or lead you to the fountain of perpetual money. It's human nature to get into situations where we have commitments.
Some ideas to help you travel and keep up the commitments: re-mortgage the house, you only live once. Rent out the house for a year. Take the kids along, or send them to live with their grandparents for a year - both generations will love it.
Take at least a month
It is our considered opinion that a month is the minimum amount of time for a worthwhile travel break. It sometimes takes up to a week to recover from jet lag, so you need this length of time to recoup and enjoy the remaining weeks. So take a month and enjoy it.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Whatever your circumstances you can go somewhere - the biggest limiting factors will be how far and for how long. To really experience life in another culture you need time, as much time as you can get. All we can suggest at this point is get as long as you can. A round the world trip in 9 months will feel rushed, 9 months in a city and you'll feel like you know it well. 9 months studying a foreign language and you'll be pretty good and in some cases fluent. Conversely - some will get itchy feet after a week in one place.
Budget
Your budget and commitments will limit how far you can go and for how long. Find out the typical daily expenses for where you want to go, including flight costs. Also don't forget to factor in overland transport costs to your calculations. A region will always have expensive hot spots, so you can save money by avoiding these areas and concentrate on other less expensive areas. By stretching your cash you will see more and worry less about things when you get back.
Commitments
Sorry everyone I can't pay off your mortgage, or lead you to the fountain of perpetual money. It's human nature to get into situations where we have commitments.
Some ideas to help you travel and keep up the commitments: re-mortgage the house, you only live once. Rent out the house for a year. Take the kids along, or send them to live with their grandparents for a year - both generations will love it.
Take at least a month
It is our considered opinion that a month is the minimum amount of time for a worthwhile travel break. It sometimes takes up to a week to recover from jet lag, so you need this length of time to recoup and enjoy the remaining weeks. So take a month and enjoy it.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Planning and Preparation - How Long is Enough
Travel Guide - Planning and Preparation - How Long is Enough
Whatever your circumstances you can go somewhere - the biggest limiting factors will be how far and for how long. To really experience life in another culture you need time, as much time as you can get. All we can suggest at this point is get as long as you can. A round the world trip in 9 months will feel rushed, 9 months in a city and you'll feel like you know it well. 9 months studying a foreign language and you'll be pretty good and in some cases fluent. Conversely - some will get itchy feet after a week in one place.
Budget
Your budget and commitments will limit how far you can go and for how long. Find out the typical daily expenses for where you want to go, including flight costs. Also don't forget to factor in overland transport costs to your calculations. A region will always have expensive hot spots, so you can save money by avoiding these areas and concentrate on other less expensive areas. By stretching your cash you will see more and worry less about things when you get back.
Commitments
Sorry everyone I can't pay off your mortgage, or lead you to the fountain of perpetual money. It's human nature to get into situations where we have commitments.
Some ideas to help you travel and keep up the commitments: re-mortgage the house, you only live once. Rent out the house for a year. Take the kids along, or send them to live with their grandparents for a year - both generations will love it.
Take at least a month
It is our considered opinion that a month is the minimum amount of time for a worthwhile travel break. It sometimes takes up to a week to recover from jet lag, so you need this length of time to recoup and enjoy the remaining weeks. So take a month and enjoy it.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Whatever your circumstances you can go somewhere - the biggest limiting factors will be how far and for how long. To really experience life in another culture you need time, as much time as you can get. All we can suggest at this point is get as long as you can. A round the world trip in 9 months will feel rushed, 9 months in a city and you'll feel like you know it well. 9 months studying a foreign language and you'll be pretty good and in some cases fluent. Conversely - some will get itchy feet after a week in one place.
Budget
Your budget and commitments will limit how far you can go and for how long. Find out the typical daily expenses for where you want to go, including flight costs. Also don't forget to factor in overland transport costs to your calculations. A region will always have expensive hot spots, so you can save money by avoiding these areas and concentrate on other less expensive areas. By stretching your cash you will see more and worry less about things when you get back.
Commitments
Sorry everyone I can't pay off your mortgage, or lead you to the fountain of perpetual money. It's human nature to get into situations where we have commitments.
Some ideas to help you travel and keep up the commitments: re-mortgage the house, you only live once. Rent out the house for a year. Take the kids along, or send them to live with their grandparents for a year - both generations will love it.
Take at least a month
It is our considered opinion that a month is the minimum amount of time for a worthwhile travel break. It sometimes takes up to a week to recover from jet lag, so you need this length of time to recoup and enjoy the remaining weeks. So take a month and enjoy it.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Travel Guide - Planning and Preparation - Getting Inspired
Travel Guide - Planning and Preparation - Getting Inspired
Just having a vague notion to travel and see the world won't get you far. You need to firm up those ideas and form a plan - if you don't you'll never leave! Many people will say that they always wanted to travel but never had the opportunity. In reality many of these people never created that opportunity; there is a subtle difference. Looking into the details, getting a firm plan and then telling people what you are going to do are a good way to begin.
Inspiration.
Where do you want to go? The world is huge, really huge. One life-time would never be enough to see it all, so get an idea of what you want to see and experience. You only have a limited amount of life - and probably a more limited amount of time and finance to travel. So what are you going to do with it? The first step is to decide what kind of journey you want to go on. To do this you need inspiration.
Where to find inspiration? Read, research your ideas, think about where you want to go. You can take inspiration from :
Travel Magazines - usually, glossy high impact brochures on destinations world wide, ranging from The National Geographic to the pullouts from the weekend papers; there is a lot of material around. The problem is that it's unlikely that your experiences will match those shown in the magazines. Why? In the case of the National Geographic their reporters are often researching one particular aspect of a subject, or a society, spend months getting to know the subject, take thousands of photos, and produce an article just a few thousand of words in length. They know the topic inside out, but have they experienced all the region has to offer ? On the other hand, glossy magazines often provide content supporting the lifestyles and types of holiday for which the magazine can push advertising. Hence the glossy magazines' emphasis on luxury. An article on backpacking is not going to support the cruise liner advertising on its opposite page.
TV Travel Shows - in my time I have seen some amazing TV shows - BBC TV's the Rough Guide Series (not to be confused with the travel guides of the same name) - was inspirational; a mix of footage, sensationalism, culture, music and facts blasted at high speed in the now defunct def2 format (I'm showing my age now). Michael Palin has inspired a generation of Round the World Travellers, though most don't try to do it in 80 days. The holiday shows, "wish you were here" and "holiday 2000's" are aimed at the short breaks mass market - and the mass market buyers only give themselves two weeks a year to enjoy themselves.
Books - such as travelling around Ireland with a fridge (who would have thought that this book would be a best seller. People do equally crazy things all the time, they just don't have the flare for humor that Tony Hawks is blessed with, nor do they skateboard as well), or Bill Bryson and his observations on tiny cultural habits and behavior, set in the grand scheme of road trips.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Just having a vague notion to travel and see the world won't get you far. You need to firm up those ideas and form a plan - if you don't you'll never leave! Many people will say that they always wanted to travel but never had the opportunity. In reality many of these people never created that opportunity; there is a subtle difference. Looking into the details, getting a firm plan and then telling people what you are going to do are a good way to begin.
Inspiration.
Where do you want to go? The world is huge, really huge. One life-time would never be enough to see it all, so get an idea of what you want to see and experience. You only have a limited amount of life - and probably a more limited amount of time and finance to travel. So what are you going to do with it? The first step is to decide what kind of journey you want to go on. To do this you need inspiration.
Where to find inspiration? Read, research your ideas, think about where you want to go. You can take inspiration from :
Travel Magazines - usually, glossy high impact brochures on destinations world wide, ranging from The National Geographic to the pullouts from the weekend papers; there is a lot of material around. The problem is that it's unlikely that your experiences will match those shown in the magazines. Why? In the case of the National Geographic their reporters are often researching one particular aspect of a subject, or a society, spend months getting to know the subject, take thousands of photos, and produce an article just a few thousand of words in length. They know the topic inside out, but have they experienced all the region has to offer ? On the other hand, glossy magazines often provide content supporting the lifestyles and types of holiday for which the magazine can push advertising. Hence the glossy magazines' emphasis on luxury. An article on backpacking is not going to support the cruise liner advertising on its opposite page.
TV Travel Shows - in my time I have seen some amazing TV shows - BBC TV's the Rough Guide Series (not to be confused with the travel guides of the same name) - was inspirational; a mix of footage, sensationalism, culture, music and facts blasted at high speed in the now defunct def2 format (I'm showing my age now). Michael Palin has inspired a generation of Round the World Travellers, though most don't try to do it in 80 days. The holiday shows, "wish you were here" and "holiday 2000's" are aimed at the short breaks mass market - and the mass market buyers only give themselves two weeks a year to enjoy themselves.
Books - such as travelling around Ireland with a fridge (who would have thought that this book would be a best seller. People do equally crazy things all the time, they just don't have the flare for humor that Tony Hawks is blessed with, nor do they skateboard as well), or Bill Bryson and his observations on tiny cultural habits and behavior, set in the grand scheme of road trips.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Transport in India - Traditional means - Walking
Transport in India - Traditional means - Walking
In ancient times, people often covered long distances on foot. For instance, the Adi Sankara traveled all over India. Even today it is not uncommon for people in rural areas to commute several kilometers every day.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
In ancient times, people often covered long distances on foot. For instance, the Adi Sankara traveled all over India. Even today it is not uncommon for people in rural areas to commute several kilometers every day.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Transport in Delhi - trolleybus - Background
Transport in Delhi - trolleybus - Background
The history of the trolleybus dates back to 29 April 1882, when Dr. Ernst Werner von Siemens ran his "Elektromote" in a Berlin suburb. This experimental demonstration continued until 13 June 1882, after which there was little progress in Europe, although separate experiments were conducted in the USA. The next development was when Lombard Gérin operated an experimental line at the Paris Exhibition of 1900 after four years of trials. Max Schiemann made the biggest step when on 10 July 1901 the world's first passenger-carrying trolleybus operated at Bielathal (near Dresden) in Germany. Schiemann built and operated the Bielathal system, and is credited with developing the under-running trolley current collection system, with two horizontally parallel overhead wires and rigid trolleypoles spring-loaded to hold them up to the wires. Although the Bielathal system only operated until 1904, Schiemann had developed what is now recognised as the standard trolleybus current collection system. In the early days, however, there were a few different methods of current collection being developed. The Cedes-Stoll system, designed by Carl Stoll, was once operated near Dresden between 1902 and 1904, and in Vienna. The Lloyd-Köhler or Bremen system was tried out in Bremen, and the Filovia was demonstrated near Milan.
Leeds and Bradford became the first cities to operate passenger-carrying trolleybuses in the UK on 20 June 1911. Bradford was also the last to operate trolleybuses in the UK, the system closing on 26 March 1972. The last rear entrance trolleybus in Britain was also in Bradford and is now owned by the Bradford Trolleybus Association. Birmingham was the first to replace a tram route with trolleybuses, while Wolverhampton under the direction of Charles Owen Silvers was responsible for turning the "trackless tram" into the trolleybus. There were 50 trolleybus operations in the UK in total, London's being the largest. By the time trolleybuses arrived in Britain in 1911, the Schiemann system was well established and was the most common, although the short-lived Stockport operation used the Lloyd-Kölher system and Keighley used the Cedes-Stoll system.
In the USA, some cities, led by the Brooklyn-Manhattan Transit Corporation (BMT—New York), subscribed to the all-four concept of using buses, trolleybuses, trams (in U.S. called streetcars, trolleys or light rail) and rapid transit subway and/or elevated lines (metros), as appropriate, for routes ranging from lightly-used to the heaviest trunk line. Buses and trolleybuses in particular were seen as entry systems that could later be upgraded to rail as appropriate. Although the BMT in Brooklyn built only one trolleybus line, other cities, notably San Francisco, California and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, built larger systems and still maintain "all-four". If one includes cable cars as another mode, San Francisco could be called "all-five," as its cable cars provide general transportation as well as being a tourist attraction.
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The history of the trolleybus dates back to 29 April 1882, when Dr. Ernst Werner von Siemens ran his "Elektromote" in a Berlin suburb. This experimental demonstration continued until 13 June 1882, after which there was little progress in Europe, although separate experiments were conducted in the USA. The next development was when Lombard Gérin operated an experimental line at the Paris Exhibition of 1900 after four years of trials. Max Schiemann made the biggest step when on 10 July 1901 the world's first passenger-carrying trolleybus operated at Bielathal (near Dresden) in Germany. Schiemann built and operated the Bielathal system, and is credited with developing the under-running trolley current collection system, with two horizontally parallel overhead wires and rigid trolleypoles spring-loaded to hold them up to the wires. Although the Bielathal system only operated until 1904, Schiemann had developed what is now recognised as the standard trolleybus current collection system. In the early days, however, there were a few different methods of current collection being developed. The Cedes-Stoll system, designed by Carl Stoll, was once operated near Dresden between 1902 and 1904, and in Vienna. The Lloyd-Köhler or Bremen system was tried out in Bremen, and the Filovia was demonstrated near Milan.
Leeds and Bradford became the first cities to operate passenger-carrying trolleybuses in the UK on 20 June 1911. Bradford was also the last to operate trolleybuses in the UK, the system closing on 26 March 1972. The last rear entrance trolleybus in Britain was also in Bradford and is now owned by the Bradford Trolleybus Association. Birmingham was the first to replace a tram route with trolleybuses, while Wolverhampton under the direction of Charles Owen Silvers was responsible for turning the "trackless tram" into the trolleybus. There were 50 trolleybus operations in the UK in total, London's being the largest. By the time trolleybuses arrived in Britain in 1911, the Schiemann system was well established and was the most common, although the short-lived Stockport operation used the Lloyd-Kölher system and Keighley used the Cedes-Stoll system.
In the USA, some cities, led by the Brooklyn-Manhattan Transit Corporation (BMT—New York), subscribed to the all-four concept of using buses, trolleybuses, trams (in U.S. called streetcars, trolleys or light rail) and rapid transit subway and/or elevated lines (metros), as appropriate, for routes ranging from lightly-used to the heaviest trunk line. Buses and trolleybuses in particular were seen as entry systems that could later be upgraded to rail as appropriate. Although the BMT in Brooklyn built only one trolleybus line, other cities, notably San Francisco, California and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, built larger systems and still maintain "all-four". If one includes cable cars as another mode, San Francisco could be called "all-five," as its cable cars provide general transportation as well as being a tourist attraction.
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Transport in Delhi - Taxis
Transport in Delhi - Taxis
Though easily available, taxis are not an integral part of Delhi public transport. The DTC, the Indian Tourism Ministry and various private operators operate most taxis. The Tourism Ministry grants private companies permits to operate taxis. Locally called tourist taxis, they provide better service than DTC ones, but, unlike DTC taxis, are not metered and usually charge more. To hire a taxi, one either has to go to a taxi stand or telephone a taxi service provider; they are not usually flagged from the street.
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Though easily available, taxis are not an integral part of Delhi public transport. The DTC, the Indian Tourism Ministry and various private operators operate most taxis. The Tourism Ministry grants private companies permits to operate taxis. Locally called tourist taxis, they provide better service than DTC ones, but, unlike DTC taxis, are not metered and usually charge more. To hire a taxi, one either has to go to a taxi stand or telephone a taxi service provider; they are not usually flagged from the street.
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Transport in Delhi - Taxis
Transport in Delhi - Taxis
Though easily available, taxis are not an integral part of Delhi public transport. The DTC, the Indian Tourism Ministry and various private operators operate most taxis. The Tourism Ministry grants private companies permits to operate taxis. Locally called tourist taxis, they provide better service than DTC ones, but, unlike DTC taxis, are not metered and usually charge more. To hire a taxi, one either has to go to a taxi stand or telephone a taxi service provider; they are not usually flagged from the street.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Though easily available, taxis are not an integral part of Delhi public transport. The DTC, the Indian Tourism Ministry and various private operators operate most taxis. The Tourism Ministry grants private companies permits to operate taxis. Locally called tourist taxis, they provide better service than DTC ones, but, unlike DTC taxis, are not metered and usually charge more. To hire a taxi, one either has to go to a taxi stand or telephone a taxi service provider; they are not usually flagged from the street.
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Transport in Delhi - Roadways
Transport in Delhi - Roadways
Public transport in Delhi is provided by auto rickshaws, buses, rapid transit system, taxis and suburban railways. Buses are the most popular means of transportation catering to about 60% of the total demand. Major bus service providers include state-owned Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), BlueLine Transport Corporation and several other private concerns. Private vehicles account for 30% of the total demand for transportation while the rest of the demand is met largely by auto-rickshaws, taxis, rapid transit system and railways. Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) serves Delhi for both domestic and international connections, and is situated in the southwestern corner of the city. In 2005-2006, IGI recorded a traffic of more than 16.2 million passengers(Both Domestic and International), making it one of the busiest airports in South Asia. Two other airports are Palam (now part of the IGI complex) and Safdarjung Flying Club.
Transportation in Delhi is largely dependent upon road. Railways, including rapid transit systems like Delhi Metro, serve only 1% of the total demand. Major railway stations are Old Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin and New Delhi Railway Station. Road transportation in Delhi is maintained by MCD, NDMC, Delhi Cantonment Board, Public Works Department and Delhi Development Authority. At 1749 km of road length per 100 km², Delhi has one of the highest road densities in India. Major roadways include the Ring Road and the Outer Ring Road which had a traffic of 110,000 vehicles per day in 2001. Delhi is well connected to other parts of India by 5 National Highways: NH-1, -2, -8, -10 and -25. In 2001, more than 3.45 million vehicles were plying on Delhi's roads and the demand for transportation rose by 6.7% while the number of motor vehicles in Delhi rose by 14.7%.
As Delhi's population continues to grow exponentially, the city's has the highest ratio of vehicles per capita in India. Government-owned Delhi Transport Corporation buses, private buses, including chartered buses all play a crucial role in connecting Delhi.
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Public transport in Delhi is provided by auto rickshaws, buses, rapid transit system, taxis and suburban railways. Buses are the most popular means of transportation catering to about 60% of the total demand. Major bus service providers include state-owned Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), BlueLine Transport Corporation and several other private concerns. Private vehicles account for 30% of the total demand for transportation while the rest of the demand is met largely by auto-rickshaws, taxis, rapid transit system and railways. Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) serves Delhi for both domestic and international connections, and is situated in the southwestern corner of the city. In 2005-2006, IGI recorded a traffic of more than 16.2 million passengers(Both Domestic and International), making it one of the busiest airports in South Asia. Two other airports are Palam (now part of the IGI complex) and Safdarjung Flying Club.
Transportation in Delhi is largely dependent upon road. Railways, including rapid transit systems like Delhi Metro, serve only 1% of the total demand. Major railway stations are Old Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin and New Delhi Railway Station. Road transportation in Delhi is maintained by MCD, NDMC, Delhi Cantonment Board, Public Works Department and Delhi Development Authority. At 1749 km of road length per 100 km², Delhi has one of the highest road densities in India. Major roadways include the Ring Road and the Outer Ring Road which had a traffic of 110,000 vehicles per day in 2001. Delhi is well connected to other parts of India by 5 National Highways: NH-1, -2, -8, -10 and -25. In 2001, more than 3.45 million vehicles were plying on Delhi's roads and the demand for transportation rose by 6.7% while the number of motor vehicles in Delhi rose by 14.7%.
As Delhi's population continues to grow exponentially, the city's has the highest ratio of vehicles per capita in India. Government-owned Delhi Transport Corporation buses, private buses, including chartered buses all play a crucial role in connecting Delhi.
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Transport in Delhi - mon·o·rail
Transport in Delhi - mon·o·rail
1. A single rail serving as a track for wheeled vehicles traveling on it or suspended from it.
2. A railway system using a single rail.
A distinctive type of materials-handling machine that provides an overhead, normally horizontal, fixed path of travel in the form of a trackage system and individually propelled hand or powered trolleys which carry their loads suspended freely with an intermittent motion. Because monorails operate over fixed paths rather than over limited areas, they differ from overhead-traveling cranes, and they should not be confused with such overhead conveyors as cableways.
Electric railway that runs on a single rail either above or under the railway cars. The first systems were introduced in the early 20th century; the earliest probably opened in 1901 in Wuppertal, Germany. Short-run monorails have since been built in such cities as Tokyo and Seattle. Because of higher costs and slower speeds than conventional rail systems, the monorail has not gained wide support. High-speed monorail vehicles that use magnetic levitation have been undergoing research for many years.
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1. A single rail serving as a track for wheeled vehicles traveling on it or suspended from it.
2. A railway system using a single rail.
A distinctive type of materials-handling machine that provides an overhead, normally horizontal, fixed path of travel in the form of a trackage system and individually propelled hand or powered trolleys which carry their loads suspended freely with an intermittent motion. Because monorails operate over fixed paths rather than over limited areas, they differ from overhead-traveling cranes, and they should not be confused with such overhead conveyors as cableways.
Electric railway that runs on a single rail either above or under the railway cars. The first systems were introduced in the early 20th century; the earliest probably opened in 1901 in Wuppertal, Germany. Short-run monorails have since been built in such cities as Tokyo and Seattle. Because of higher costs and slower speeds than conventional rail systems, the monorail has not gained wide support. High-speed monorail vehicles that use magnetic levitation have been undergoing research for many years.
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Transport in Delhi - Metro
Transport in Delhi - Metro
Delhi's high population growth rate, coupled by high economic growth rate has resulted in ever increasing demand for transportation creating excessive pressure on the city's existent transport infrastructure. Like many other cities in the developing world, the city faces acute transport management problems leading to air pollution, congestion and resultant loss of productivity. In order to meet the transportation demand in Delhi, the State and Union governmet started the construction of an ambitious mass rapid transit system, known as Delhi Metro. As of 2005, the metro operates 3 lines with a total length of 56 km and 50 stations while several other lines are under construction. The MCD and PWD also launched several traffic decongestion programmes.
Three lines currently operate. Line 1 runs east-west for 22kms on an elevated track between Rithala and Shahdara. Line 2 runs north-south for 11kms in an underground tunnel between Vishwa Vidyalaya and the Central Secretariat. Line 3, opened on December 31, 2005, runs 22.8 km long on elevated tracks and an underground tunnel, between Indraprastha, Barakhamba Road and Dwarka.http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Delhi's high population growth rate, coupled by high economic growth rate has resulted in ever increasing demand for transportation creating excessive pressure on the city's existent transport infrastructure. Like many other cities in the developing world, the city faces acute transport management problems leading to air pollution, congestion and resultant loss of productivity. In order to meet the transportation demand in Delhi, the State and Union governmet started the construction of an ambitious mass rapid transit system, known as Delhi Metro. As of 2005, the metro operates 3 lines with a total length of 56 km and 50 stations while several other lines are under construction. The MCD and PWD also launched several traffic decongestion programmes.
Three lines currently operate. Line 1 runs east-west for 22kms on an elevated track between Rithala and Shahdara. Line 2 runs north-south for 11kms in an underground tunnel between Vishwa Vidyalaya and the Central Secretariat. Line 3, opened on December 31, 2005, runs 22.8 km long on elevated tracks and an underground tunnel, between Indraprastha, Barakhamba Road and Dwarka.http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Transport in Delhi - Buses
Transport in Delhi - Buses
Delhi has one of India's largest bus transport systems. Most of the buses that ply across Delhi are operated by State-owned Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and other private operators such as the BlueLine Transport Corporation. It is mandatory for all private bus operators to acquire permit from Delhi's State Transport Authority.
Bus fares are based on the colour of the stripe on the bus. Regular DTC buses are yellow and have bus numbers in white plates. Their fares are in denomination of 2, 5, 7 and 10 rupees. Similar private buses are yellow or blue. Buses with green stripes, yellow number plates and GL printed ahead of the number, charge a flat fare of 10 rupees.
DTC operates the world's largest fleet of environmentally friendly CNG buses. While not very high-tech, they pollute much less than the poorly designed and maintained diesel buses of most other State Road Transit Commissions (RTCs) in India. The buses are also much easier on the lungs of other road users as there is no cloud of carbon particles in the face of the unfortunate motorcyclist who sidles next to a bus at an intersection. Directly, and indirectly, the gas-burning buses have also somewhat reduced the downward trend in Delhi's air quality and related illnesses. Soon, a new fleet of buses will serve Delhi, proving to be very high tech, clean, and environmentally friendly.
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Delhi has one of India's largest bus transport systems. Most of the buses that ply across Delhi are operated by State-owned Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and other private operators such as the BlueLine Transport Corporation. It is mandatory for all private bus operators to acquire permit from Delhi's State Transport Authority.
Bus fares are based on the colour of the stripe on the bus. Regular DTC buses are yellow and have bus numbers in white plates. Their fares are in denomination of 2, 5, 7 and 10 rupees. Similar private buses are yellow or blue. Buses with green stripes, yellow number plates and GL printed ahead of the number, charge a flat fare of 10 rupees.
DTC operates the world's largest fleet of environmentally friendly CNG buses. While not very high-tech, they pollute much less than the poorly designed and maintained diesel buses of most other State Road Transit Commissions (RTCs) in India. The buses are also much easier on the lungs of other road users as there is no cloud of carbon particles in the face of the unfortunate motorcyclist who sidles next to a bus at an intersection. Directly, and indirectly, the gas-burning buses have also somewhat reduced the downward trend in Delhi's air quality and related illnesses. Soon, a new fleet of buses will serve Delhi, proving to be very high tech, clean, and environmentally friendly.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Transport in Delhi - Auto-rickshaws
Transport in Delhi - Auto-rickshaws
The auto rickshaws (sometimes called Auto) are an important and popular means of public transportation in Delhi, as they charge a lower fare than taxis. Hiring an Auto in Delhi is very tricky, as few auto-drivers accept standard meter charges. The typical method is to haggle for an agreeable rate. It is typical for the rate to be almost doubled after 11 p.m. With the introduction of electronic meters, the tamperability of meters has reduced, and a stronger jurisdiction for a sanctioning body has forced more auto-rickshaws to comply with the meter-based charging scheme. However, it is common for the meters of auto-rickshaws to be "broken" or disregarded by their drivers. This rarely is a source of conflict because the fares charged are modest, particularly by western standards.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
The auto rickshaws (sometimes called Auto) are an important and popular means of public transportation in Delhi, as they charge a lower fare than taxis. Hiring an Auto in Delhi is very tricky, as few auto-drivers accept standard meter charges. The typical method is to haggle for an agreeable rate. It is typical for the rate to be almost doubled after 11 p.m. With the introduction of electronic meters, the tamperability of meters has reduced, and a stronger jurisdiction for a sanctioning body has forced more auto-rickshaws to comply with the meter-based charging scheme. However, it is common for the meters of auto-rickshaws to be "broken" or disregarded by their drivers. This rarely is a source of conflict because the fares charged are modest, particularly by western standards.
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Transport in Delhi - Airports
Transport in Delhi - Airports
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) serves Delhi for both domestic and international connections, and is situated in the southwestern corner of the city. In 2004, IGI recorded a traffic of more than 8.5 million passengers[3], making it one of the busiest airports in South Asia. It operates two terminals — Terminal 1 for domestic and Terminal 2 for international air travel. The international terminal has all modern facilities like Duty-Free Shopping, money exchange service and various other recreational facilities. However, limited transportation facilities between Terminal 1 and the international terminal, has caused some inconvenience to passengers in the past.
Two other airports are Palam (now part of the IGI complex) and Safdarjung Flying Club. Palam Airport (formerly RIAF Palam) is now used by the Indian Air Force and the Avionics Research Centre (ARC) of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW).
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Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) serves Delhi for both domestic and international connections, and is situated in the southwestern corner of the city. In 2004, IGI recorded a traffic of more than 8.5 million passengers[3], making it one of the busiest airports in South Asia. It operates two terminals — Terminal 1 for domestic and Terminal 2 for international air travel. The international terminal has all modern facilities like Duty-Free Shopping, money exchange service and various other recreational facilities. However, limited transportation facilities between Terminal 1 and the international terminal, has caused some inconvenience to passengers in the past.
Two other airports are Palam (now part of the IGI complex) and Safdarjung Flying Club. Palam Airport (formerly RIAF Palam) is now used by the Indian Air Force and the Avionics Research Centre (ARC) of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW).
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Transport in India-Traditional mean-Manually pulled rickshaw
Transport in India-Traditional mean-Manually pulled rickshaw
This type of transport was prevalent until 2005 in Kolkata wherein a person pulls the rickshaw. The Government of West Bengal banned these rickshaw in 2005 describing them "inhuman". While this was lauded in general, questions about alternative means of livelihood of those who directly or indirectly depend on hand pulled rickshaws were not immediately addressed. Manually pulled rickshaws are still a common sight on the streets of Kolkata.
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This type of transport was prevalent until 2005 in Kolkata wherein a person pulls the rickshaw. The Government of West Bengal banned these rickshaw in 2005 describing them "inhuman". While this was lauded in general, questions about alternative means of livelihood of those who directly or indirectly depend on hand pulled rickshaws were not immediately addressed. Manually pulled rickshaws are still a common sight on the streets of Kolkata.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Transport in India - Traditional means - Trams
Transport in India - Traditional means - Trams
The advent of the British saw trams being introduced in many cities including Mumbai and Calcutta. They are still in use in Calcutta and provide a pollution-free means of transportation. The nationalised Calcutta Tram Company has introduced buses on certain routes in order to generate more revenue and reduce losses.
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The advent of the British saw trams being introduced in many cities including Mumbai and Calcutta. They are still in use in Calcutta and provide a pollution-free means of transportation. The nationalised Calcutta Tram Company has introduced buses on certain routes in order to generate more revenue and reduce losses.
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Transport in India - Traditional means - Horse carriages
Transport in India - Traditional means - Horse carriages
The advent of the British saw drastic improvements in the horse carriages which were used for transport since early days. To today they are used in smaller towns and are referred as "Tanga", and buggies (Victorias of Bombay) are still used for tourist purposes.
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The advent of the British saw drastic improvements in the horse carriages which were used for transport since early days. To today they are used in smaller towns and are referred as "Tanga", and buggies (Victorias of Bombay) are still used for tourist purposes.
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Transport in India - Traditional means - Horse carriages
Transport in India - Traditional means - Horse carriages
The advent of the British saw drastic improvements in the horse carriages which were used for transport since early days. To today they are used in smaller towns and are referred as "Tanga", and buggies (Victorias of Bombay) are still used for tourist purposes.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
The advent of the British saw drastic improvements in the horse carriages which were used for transport since early days. To today they are used in smaller towns and are referred as "Tanga", and buggies (Victorias of Bombay) are still used for tourist purposes.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Transport in India - Traditional means - Cycle rickshaw
Transport in India - Traditional means - Cycle rickshaw
From the early part of the century the bicycle rickshaws also became popular and are still used in rural India. They are more a bigger tricycle wherein two people can sit on an elevated seat at the back and a person will pedal (driver) from the front. In urban areas they have been mostly superseded by auto rickshaws.
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From the early part of the century the bicycle rickshaws also became popular and are still used in rural India. They are more a bigger tricycle wherein two people can sit on an elevated seat at the back and a person will pedal (driver) from the front. In urban areas they have been mostly superseded by auto rickshaws.
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Transport in India - Traditional means - Bullock cart
Transport in India - Traditional means - Bullock cart
Bullock carts have been traditionally used for transport, especially in rural India. They can still be seen in many of the cities and villages. In the recent years some of the cities have banned the movement of bullock carts and other slow moving vehicles in the main arterials during daytime.
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Bullock carts have been traditionally used for transport, especially in rural India. They can still be seen in many of the cities and villages. In the recent years some of the cities have banned the movement of bullock carts and other slow moving vehicles in the main arterials during daytime.
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Transport in India - Traditional means - Bicycles
Transport in India - Traditional means - Bicycles
Bicycles are an important mode of travel for much of India. A significant prejudice against bicycle riding for transportation exists in some segments of the population, generally stemming from the status symbol aspect of the motor vehicle.
In India, the word "bike" generally means motorbike, and "cycle" means bicycle.
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Bicycles are an important mode of travel for much of India. A significant prejudice against bicycle riding for transportation exists in some segments of the population, generally stemming from the status symbol aspect of the motor vehicle.
In India, the word "bike" generally means motorbike, and "cycle" means bicycle.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Transport in India - Local transport - Vans
Transport in India - Local transport - Vans
Vans or minibuses are a more prevalent form of transportation especially in remote areas and common route with consistent yet small transportation needs. Not to mention their presence in other cities, where they are often a traffic menace.
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Vans or minibuses are a more prevalent form of transportation especially in remote areas and common route with consistent yet small transportation needs. Not to mention their presence in other cities, where they are often a traffic menace.
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Transport in India - Local transport - Buses
Transport in India - Local transport - Buses
The use of buses is very popular for all classes of society. They are a cheap and easy mode of transport. The government is encouraging the people to use the bus since it reduces the number of vehicles on the road thus reducing traffic jams.
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The use of buses is very popular for all classes of society. They are a cheap and easy mode of transport. The government is encouraging the people to use the bus since it reduces the number of vehicles on the road thus reducing traffic jams.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Transport in India - Local transport
Transport in India - Local transport
Local transportation is predominantly by road, with a small fraction (depending on the city) by trains. Most Indian cities are connected to surrounding towns by buses or trains. The vast national rail network also enables farmers to transport their farm and agriculture produce to larger towns, where they get better prices.
The roads in most cities are poorly maintained and full of potholes, while in villages they are frequently non-existent. Traffic generally moves slowly and erratically, and traffic jams and accidents are very common. A Reader's Digest study of traffic congestion in Asian cities ranked several Indian cities within the Top Ten for worst traffic.
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Local transportation is predominantly by road, with a small fraction (depending on the city) by trains. Most Indian cities are connected to surrounding towns by buses or trains. The vast national rail network also enables farmers to transport their farm and agriculture produce to larger towns, where they get better prices.
The roads in most cities are poorly maintained and full of potholes, while in villages they are frequently non-existent. Traffic generally moves slowly and erratically, and traffic jams and accidents are very common. A Reader's Digest study of traffic congestion in Asian cities ranked several Indian cities within the Top Ten for worst traffic.
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Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Transport in India - Long distance transport - Railways
Transport in India - Long distance transport - Railways
India's rail network is the longest of any country. Trains run at an average of around 50-60 km/h, which means that it can take more than two days to get from one corner of the country to another. Rail operations throughout the country are run by the state-owned company, Indian Railways. The rail network traverses through the length and breadth of the country, covering a total length of around 63,000 km (39,000 miles). Out of this a total 16,693 km of track has been electrified till now and 12,617 km have double tracks.
Indian Railways uses three type of gauges : Broad Gauge, Metre Gauge and Narrow Gauge. Broad gauge at 1.676 m is one of the widest gauge used anywhere in the world. IR is in the process of converting all the metre gauge (14,406 km) into broad gauge. Narrow gauge (3,106 km of track) with a width of 0.610 m to 0.762 m is restricted to very few places.
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India's rail network is the longest of any country. Trains run at an average of around 50-60 km/h, which means that it can take more than two days to get from one corner of the country to another. Rail operations throughout the country are run by the state-owned company, Indian Railways. The rail network traverses through the length and breadth of the country, covering a total length of around 63,000 km (39,000 miles). Out of this a total 16,693 km of track has been electrified till now and 12,617 km have double tracks.
Indian Railways uses three type of gauges : Broad Gauge, Metre Gauge and Narrow Gauge. Broad gauge at 1.676 m is one of the widest gauge used anywhere in the world. IR is in the process of converting all the metre gauge (14,406 km) into broad gauge. Narrow gauge (3,106 km of track) with a width of 0.610 m to 0.762 m is restricted to very few places.
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Transport in India - Long distance transport - Buses
Transport in India - Long distance transport - Buses
Next only to railways, the most preferred long distance transport option for the public are the buses. Most of the state road transport corporations have buses which connect major cities and towns.
There are private bus operators who run regular schedule of buses for connections between major cities and towns. Most long distance buses are scheduled during the night. Long distance travel in buses is quite common for distances up to 500 km. In some cases there are connections for distances like 1000 km (eg. Bangalore to Mumbai), with a travel time of 24 hours. With the advent of better buses (eg. Volvo's popular Volvo B7R) and better highways, road transport has become a fast and comfortable option for travellers.
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Next only to railways, the most preferred long distance transport option for the public are the buses. Most of the state road transport corporations have buses which connect major cities and towns.
There are private bus operators who run regular schedule of buses for connections between major cities and towns. Most long distance buses are scheduled during the night. Long distance travel in buses is quite common for distances up to 500 km. In some cases there are connections for distances like 1000 km (eg. Bangalore to Mumbai), with a travel time of 24 hours. With the advent of better buses (eg. Volvo's popular Volvo B7R) and better highways, road transport has become a fast and comfortable option for travellers.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Transport in India - Local transport
Transport in India - Local transport
Local transportation is predominantly by road, with a small fraction (depending on the city) by trains. Most Indian cities are connected to surrounding towns by buses or trains. The vast national rail network also enables farmers to transport their farm and agriculture produce to larger towns, where they get better prices.
The roads in most cities are poorly maintained and full of potholes, while in villages they are frequently non-existent. Traffic generally moves slowly and erratically, and traffic jams and accidents are very common. A Reader's Digest study of traffic congestion in Asian cities ranked several Indian cities within the Top Ten for worst traffic.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Local transportation is predominantly by road, with a small fraction (depending on the city) by trains. Most Indian cities are connected to surrounding towns by buses or trains. The vast national rail network also enables farmers to transport their farm and agriculture produce to larger towns, where they get better prices.
The roads in most cities are poorly maintained and full of potholes, while in villages they are frequently non-existent. Traffic generally moves slowly and erratically, and traffic jams and accidents are very common. A Reader's Digest study of traffic congestion in Asian cities ranked several Indian cities within the Top Ten for worst traffic.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Transport in India - Local transport - Vans
Transport in India - Local transport - Vans
Vans or minibuses are a more prevalent form of transportation especially in remote areas and common route with consistent yet small transportation needs. Not to mention their presence in other cities, where they are often a traffic menace.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Vans or minibuses are a more prevalent form of transportation especially in remote areas and common route with consistent yet small transportation needs. Not to mention their presence in other cities, where they are often a traffic menace.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
Transport in India - Local transport - Utility vehicles
Transport in India - Local transport - Utility vehicles
The first utility vehicle in India was manufactured by Mahindra and Mahindra. The vehicle was an instant hit and made Mahindra Corp one of the top companies in India. The Indian Army and police extensively used Mahindra vehicles for transporting personnel and equipments. Tata Motors, the automobile manufacturing leg of the Tata Group, launched its first utility vehicle, Tata Sumo in mid-1990s. Sumo was the first utility vehicle which captured the urban market. Many people used them as avenues of employment and till today they are lent on hire for personal purposes. Research from HireCarsIndia.com indicates that Toyota's Qualis is by far the most popular rental vehicle amongst NRI's and foreign visitors. Tempo trax of Bajaj Auto till recently was ruling the rural areas. Mahindra and Mahindra's Scorpio is the market leader in the utility vehicle segment. However with the advent of Toyota's Qualis and General Motors' Tavera, Mahindra Corp and Tata Motors are losing their share.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
The first utility vehicle in India was manufactured by Mahindra and Mahindra. The vehicle was an instant hit and made Mahindra Corp one of the top companies in India. The Indian Army and police extensively used Mahindra vehicles for transporting personnel and equipments. Tata Motors, the automobile manufacturing leg of the Tata Group, launched its first utility vehicle, Tata Sumo in mid-1990s. Sumo was the first utility vehicle which captured the urban market. Many people used them as avenues of employment and till today they are lent on hire for personal purposes. Research from HireCarsIndia.com indicates that Toyota's Qualis is by far the most popular rental vehicle amongst NRI's and foreign visitors. Tempo trax of Bajaj Auto till recently was ruling the rural areas. Mahindra and Mahindra's Scorpio is the market leader in the utility vehicle segment. However with the advent of Toyota's Qualis and General Motors' Tavera, Mahindra Corp and Tata Motors are losing their share.
http://www.oasistravelindia.com
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